Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells is in Nauru on an official visit which is aimed at strengthening relations between the two countries.
Senator Fierravanti-Wells' visit comes almost two weeks after Nauru President Baron Waqa’s official trip to Australia.
In a statement the Minister said she will meet with President Waqa and sign a new bilateral Aid Partnership arrangement, which focusses on promoting human development, critical infrastructure, and public financial reform.
Senator Fierravanti-Wells will also sign a MoU covering the Northern Australia – Pacific Microstate Worker pilot program that will provide new opportunities for Nauruans to work in Australia’s strong tourism, accommodation, and service industries.
She says she will with Parliamentarians and the community, and discuss with them how they can best work together on issues of gender equality, regional security, climate change, and health.
Australia is a close and long-standing friend and partner of Nauru.
“My visit will provide an opportunity to reinforce Australia’s commitment to development of our Pacific island neighbours such as Nauru. In Nauru, I will see first-hand how Australia’s aid program supports the country’s economic and social development, and how it makes our region more stable, secure, and prosperous,” Senator Fierravanti-Wells said.
“I will meet with Australian-funded advisors who work across key government ministries in Nauru, who are coordinated through our Pacific Technical Assistance Mechanism. These advisors have made significant contributions to public sector reform in Nauru, particularly in the areas of taxation, customs, public utilities management, and domestic violence support services.”
The minister will also visit the newly renovated Republic of Nauru Hospital.
The Australian Government has supported two phases of the hospital’s redevelopment, which was funded through its aid programme and coordinated in conjunction with the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
“The support of the Australian people has improved Nauruans’ access to affordable health facilities, including upgraded paediatric and pathology facilities, and a number of community wellness centres across Nauru,” Senator Fierravanti-Wells said.