The Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) programme of the World Trade Organization have approved 315 million vatu in aid for the reconstruction of the Port Vila waterfront seawall. The EIF recognition will help improve Vanuatu’s ability to achieve Sustainable development exponentially
Australian High Commissioner Jeremy Bruer highlighted the main areas of Australian assistance to Vanuatu in his end-of-year address. Health and Education were high on the list; Education being jointly developed with the New Zealand government. Bruer also mentioned the importance of economy, especially with the island roads development and the Port Vila Urban Development Project. The latter concentrates on town roads, footpaths and drainage.
The Vanuatu Expo Committee is working with the Department of Industry, the Tourism Office and VIPA to consider showcasing local products at the upcoming European World Expo Milano 2015. The Vanuatu pavilion is expected to be completed in about two weeks.
Labour Commissioner Lionel Kaluat has advised that work permits will be as easily obtainable by foreign labor workers in this coming year due to the intention of the Government of Vauatu to have ni-Vanuatu workers occupy 50% of the workforce. The surprising fact is that the target was not met long ago.
Two derelict government-owned vessels the MV Southern Star and it’s cousin Northern Star have been sunk along the Pango and Devil’s Points under the order of the Port and Harbour Department