Brussels, 28/03/2013 (Agence Europe) - The European Investment Bank (EIB) has decided to help examine the possibilities for improving the airports of the Cook Islands and Samoa with regard to safety, terminal facilities and energy efficiency. The technical assistance programme, which is allocated US$1.1 million (around €85,000) aims to identify the key investment to be made in these areas. The ultimate objective is to develop tourism, to improve regional integration, and to improve the economy.
The technical assistance programme was signed in Auckland on 25 March by Prime Minister of the Cook Islands Henry Tuakeu Puna, Prime Minister of Samoa Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi and European Investment Bank Vice-President responsible for the Pacific region, Pim van Ballekom. (OL/transl.fl)