UAE pledges governance modernization and sectoral investments, strengthening bilateral relations and digital strategy implementation.
In a significant move towards international cooperation, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has pledged robust support to the Solomon Islands, marking a new era of governance and development following bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York.
The meeting between Solomon Islands Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination, Hon. Rexon Ramofafia, and ADFD Director General, H.E. Mr. Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, explored various opportunities and potential projects with ADFD’s backing.
ADFD, a foreign aid agency of the UAE government, committed to signing a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Solomon Islands, focusing on governance modernization. This agreement includes training programs for senior government officials, tailored for the specific needs of the Solomon Islands, aiming to transition government services from paper-based to digital as part of the broader Digital Government Strategy.
Minister Ramofafia commended the UAE’s visionary leadership and its commitment to partnerships with developing nations. He expressed gratitude for UAE support in the Solomon Islands’ energy sector, particularly through initiatives like Solomon Power and the Tina Hydro Project. Highlighting governance as a critical challenge, he welcomed the UAE’s offer to assist in capacity building.
Ramofafia underscored the strengthening ties between the Solomon Islands and the UAE, noting the establishment of a new Solomon Islands Mission in Abu Dhabi. Discussions also covered potential investment opportunities in tourism, fisheries, energy, and infrastructure, along with prospects for Solomon Islanders to participate in government exchange programs and learn from UAE experiences. He mentioned plans to explore concessional financing for major investments with ADFD.
The official opening of the Solomon Islands Embassy in Abu Dhabi is scheduled for September this year, reinforcing bilateral relations.
Established in 1971, ADFD aims to support sustainable socio-economic growth in developing countries through concessionary loans, grants and technical assistance.
Source: MNPDC
