NORWAY ACKNOWLEDGED FOR CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH GREEN CLIMATE FUND

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BY DOUGLAS MARAU
PM PRESS SECRETARIAT

PRIME Minister of Solomon Islands Rick Houenipwela has held bilateral talks with Norway’s International Development Minister Hon Nikolai Astrup.

During his meeting with the Norwegian Minister, Prime Minister Houenipwela has acknowledged the significant contributions by Norway through the Green Climate Fund.

Norway is one of the largest contributors to the Green Climate Fund sponsoring over USD $270 Million over 4 years.

He acknowledged that Solomon Islands has benefited from the fund through the Tina Hydro Project.

“The project is small compared to world standards but it’s huge for us since it is expected to reduce electricity costs in the country,” he said.

Prime Minister Houenipwela also raised issues regarding renewable energy, fisheries, maritime policing, training opportunities and education scholarships.

Norway Minister Astrup in response said Norway is keen in assisting in the areas of renewable energy, fisheries, and climate change through multi-lateral means.

Mr Astrup said Norway share similar concerns and challenges with its ocean resources and over fishing.

Therefore, he said they are willing to share their experiences with Solomon Islands looking at ways to tackle the issue.



“We are also concerned about plastic pollution in the oceans,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister also highlighted that Solomon Islands like other Pacific Countries remain concerned about climate change and sea level rise.

He said at least dozens of islands in the pacific including Solomon Islands are now under water as a result of climate change.

“The Solomon Islands Government is working on a legislation on the use and ban of plastic bags,” he said.

ENDS///


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