ABG Welcomes Aropa Airport Redevelopment
The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has officially welcomed the commencement of a major redevelopment project for Aropa Airport - a significant step toward improving Bougainville’s infrastructure and connectivity.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony yesterday, Chief Secretary Mr. Kearneth Nanei said the project marks a major milestone for Bougainville’s recovery and redevelopment journey since the reopening of the airport in 2014.
“This is a major investment from the National Government, donor partners, and national agencies to rebuild Bougainville’s transport institutions and facilities,” Mr. Nanei said.
He reaffirmed ABG’s commitment to work alongside the NAC, National Government, ADB, and local landowners to ensure the project’s successful delivery.
Mr. Nanei also appealed for the National Government and the National Minister for Civil Aviation to consider upgrading Aropa to an international airport to enhance regional connectivity with neighboring countries like the Solomon Islands, Australia, and Nauru.
“Bougainvilleans are already trading and traveling to the Solomon Islands, and improving Aropa’s status would strengthen these ties while ensuring travels are regulated and monitored,” he added.
ABG President Hon. Ishmael Toroama shared similar sentiments, thanking the National Government, NAC and ADB for their support for the project and called on Bougainvilleans to protect public infrastructure projects.
“Landowners and the people of Bougainville must work with the government to protect such developments. These projects pave the way for economic growth and our collective vision for independence,” President Toroama stated.
He reminded Bougainvilleans that ABG was into its 19th year since its formation and called on the people to protect such projects delivered by the government, to change their attitudes, work the land and not wait for handouts.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, who officiated the groundbreaking, reaffirmed the National Government’s commitment to supporting Bougainville through high-impact projects while deliberations are still ongoing on Bougainville’s political future.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by the Prime Minister Hon James Marape, who was accompanied by the National Minister for Aviation Hon Wake Goi, Governor for NCD Hon Powes Parkop, National Minister for Internal Security and Regional Member for Bougainville Hon Peter Tsiamalili and dignitaries from the National Government, ADB, CRCG Ltd and NAC.
ABG President Hon. Ishmael Toroama was accompanied by the ABG Minister for Finance Hon Geraldine Paul, ABG Minister for Community Government Hon. Theonila Matbob, Chief Secretary Kearneth Nanei and officials of the Bougainville public service.
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