The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) has thrown its support behind the proposed trade link between Temotu Province and Vanuatu.
A member of the MSG Eminent Persons Group (EPG) and Ni-Vanuatu Joe Natuman confirmed this via an email interview.
He said, the proposed trade link would boost economic growth in Temotu and the nation.
“As a matter of fact, MSG fully supports the proposal because it has the potential to boost growth,” Natuman said.
He said, last year members of the MSG Eminent Persons Group were in Honiara and they’ve talked with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade about the proposal.
Natuman said, they’ve discussed the proposed links with relevant Solomon Islands Government officials already and it’s up to this current government what steps to pursue further.
He said, Toba Province in Vanuatu has been identified as potential trading partner of Temotu.
He added they are also looking at encouraging similar links with Western Province.
Meanwhile, the Government is yet to formalise a paper on the proposed trade link with Vanuatu, Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
Temotu Premier Soakifono is aware of the proposal and once the formalities are finalised, the trade link with be signed at Temotu Provincial capital Lata.
Soakifono said, his province wants this done soon so that they can begin the trading process.
By ELLIOT DAWEA