Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my pleasure to formalise Japan’s grant aid to the Government of the Republic of Kiribati for construction work on the Expansion of Betio Port.

At the outset, I wish to express gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Kiribati for the arrangement of today’s occasion and the warm reception extended to me and my colleague this morning.

Japan, in November 2010, signed and exchanged notes for provision of approximately Aus$630,000 for the detailed design of this project and today’s signing and exchange of notes ceremony is a clear manifestation of Japan’s further commitment of approximately Aus $36 million for expansion works at Betio wharf.

The funding of pier extension at Betio Port will not only improve port efficiency and its safety aspects but, will also act as a catalyst to boost economic development and investment in the Republic of Kiribati.

In addition to this funding, Japan has been an active development partner of a few major projects in Kiribati that were funded recently through Japan’s General Grant Aid which include, Improvement of Road in South Tarawa, Electric Power Supply in Tarawa Atoll, Project for improvement of Betio port and Upgrading of Water Supply System in Tungaru Central Hospital. Furthermore, Japan has also dispatched volunteers since 2009 to promote and exchange Japanese knowledge and skills.

More so, a total of 37 projects in the areas of health, education, water and fisheries have been implemented through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects programme since its inception in 1996. Today’s Exchange of Notes ceremony is therefore, a clear manifestation of Japan’s goodwill and firm commitment to assist Kiribati Government with the implementation of its developmental plan.

To conclude, I sincerely hope that this grant aid will serve to further strengthen the cordial relations between the governments and the peoples of Japan and Kiribati.

Thank you.