UAE’s Abu Dhabi Fund for Development pledges to support Solomon Islands following fruitful bilateral dialogue
In a landmark move cementing international cooperation, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has pledged robust support to the Solomon Islands, heralding a new era of governance and development following a fruitful bilateral dialogue on the margins of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York.
The bilateral meeting between the Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC) Hon. Rexon Ramofafia and the Director General of ADFD, H.E. Mr. Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, touched on numerous opportunities and projects that can be initiated with ADFD’s support.
ADFD is a foreign aid agency of the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
H.E. Mr Al Suwaidi committed to sign a three-year MoU with the Solomon Islands focused on governance modernization. This agreement will enable the UAE government to offer training programs for senior government officials, including specific provisions for the Solomon Islands.
Director General of ADFD, H.E. Mr. Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi (right) assures MNPDC Minister, Hon. Ramofafia (left) of numerous opportunities and projects that can be initiated with ADFD’s support.
Building on over 30 years of successful governance and the implementation of their Digital Government Strategy, the training will help government officers transition from paper-based to digital services by embedding digital aspects into overall government strategies.
Minister Ramofafia acknowledged the visionary leadership of the UAE and their commitment to partnership with the Global South. He particularly thanked the UAE Government for supporting the energy sector through Solomon Power and the Tina Hydro Project. He emphasized that good governance is a key challenge for the country and expressed appreciation for the UAE’s offer to assist in capacity building.
Hon. Ramofafia highlighted that the Solomon Islands government is strengthening its relationship with the UAE, as evidenced by the establishment of the new Solomon Islands Mission in Abu Dhabi. The two leaders also discussed ambitious investment projects in sectors such as tourism, fisheries, energy and infrastructure as well as opportunities for Solomon Islanders to participate in government exchange programs and learn from the UAE.
MNPDC Permanent Secretary Dr Melchior Mataki (sitting far left) making a statement in support to the minister during the bilateral meeting with ADFD Director General and distinguish officials.
Minister Ramofafia also highlighted the Solomon Islands Government’s plans to explore concessional financing for major investments with ADFD.
He informed that the official opening of the Solomon Islands Embassy in Abu Dhabi is scheduled for September this year.
Established in 1971, the ADFD aims to help developing countries achieve sustainable socio-economic growth. It provides development aid and programs through concessionary loans, government grants, and technical assistance to support the economic and social objectives of developing countries.
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– MNPDC Media@HLPF, NY