World Bank: Fiji’s leadership led us to set up office here
The World Bank’s Vice President for East Asia Pacific, Victoria Kwakwa, yesterday praised Fiji’s good leadership.
She said this was why they had chosen to open up their regional office here.
Ms Kwakwa said she hoped the execution of the World Bank establishment agreement would strengthen their relationship with Fiji.
The signing would open up more opportunities for Fiji and they were ready to offer assistance to Fiji and its neighbours, she said Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama welcomed the World Bank Group to Fiji saying: “While the World Bank Group established its physical presence in Fiji last year, today with the execution of the establishment agreement, we officially welcome the World Bank Group to Fiji.”
He added that of the 11 Pacific Island Countries which were members of the World Bank Group, Fiji had been selected as the location for the establishment of this regional office and Fiji was honoured to host the World Bank Group.
“Fiji welcomes the World Bank and International Finance Corporation’s presence as well as other organisations that may wish to call Fiji home.” The World Bank joined many other international organisations here, he said.
“And as the hub of the Pacific with connectivity to other Pacific Island countries as well as all continents that rim the Pacific except for South America, being based in Fiji is increasingly beneficial for international organisations such as the World Bank.”