Japan is planning to build another new bridge in Tamavua-i-wai after demolishing the old bridge.
This was highlighted by the Japanese Ambassador to Fiji Omura Masahiro at the 50th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Fiji Commemorative Ceremony.
A spokesperson of the Japanese Embassy told us that they knew that the Fijian Government had plans to have four lane roads, and that is why they wanted to build this new bridge to help with the traffic congestion.
Meanwhile, Masahiro says in the past 50 years, Japan has provided Official Development Assistance worth more than US$500 million.
Masahiro says they have implemented large-scale projects throughout Fiji for fisheries, health and medicine, nursing, pharmaceuticals, Meteorology, and disaster risk reduction.
He says to date 387 projects worth US$27 million have been implemented to cover key areas including education and water supply.
Masahiro says through the FJ$45 million Stand-by Loan, Japan is supporting Fiji to address the damages caused by TC Harold and also to address the impacts of COVID-19.
He says they are also planning to implement the project for Nadi River Flood Alleviation.
While speaking at the event, Minister for Fisheries Semi Koroilavesau says Nadi and its surrounding areas represent the heart of Fiji and the gateway to the rest of Fiji and the Pacific.
Koroilavesau says while home to many Fijian families and other commercial businesses, the worsening impacts of climate change are placing great risk to the affected livelihoods.
He says Japan and its people are no strangers to Fiji as they have established bonds which includes their collaboration to develop Fiji’s Fisheries Sector which has grown steadily.
There were also virtual traditional performances from the RFMF Band.
