Press Releases

» Japan Provides Grant Assistance to the Republic of Kiribati

Embargo: Friday, 17th March 2006, 03:00 p.m.

The Government of the Republic of Kiribati will receive a grant assistance in the sum of JPY100 million (US$811,534.62) from the Government of Japan. The funding will be sourced from Japan’s Non - Project Grant Aid (NPGA).

A ceremony will be held at the Consulate-General of Japan in Brisbane, 17th Floor, Comalco Place, 12 Creek St, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, at 03:00p.m., on 17th March 2006 where Mr. Taam Biribo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Immigration of the Republic of Kiribati, and H.E. Mr. Masashi Namekawa, the Ambassador of Japan, will sign and exchange notes to formalise Japan’s commitment towards the assistance. H.E. Mr. Anote Tong, the President of the Republic of Kiribati, will also be present during the signing ceremony.

The Government of the Republic of Kiribati in recent times have been facing difficulties in acquiring non renewable fuel to ensure stable power supply and fishing vessel services to its people. The rising fuel costs have also affected the island nation. In view of this serious situation and the close ties that exist between the two nations, the Government of Japan decided to assist Kiribati in procuring the much needed non renewable fuel.

It is anticipated that this grant will enable the Government of the Republic of Kiribati to meet 11% of the total costs of importing non renewable fuel and, as such, will relieve the pressure Kiribati is facing in finding funds to deliver the services required by its people. As a result, the Kiribati Government will be able to ensure reliable and stable power supply and consistent operation of fishing vessels for its economy and the people.

This NPGA is an added milestone in Japan’s ongoing support and cooperation towards development and prosperity of the Republic of Kiribati and it is anticipated that the friendly ties between the Government and People of the Republic of Kiribati and Japan will further strengthen.