China funding

Samoa's Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, said the regional package included direct grants and soft loans but Samoa was looking at maximising the former for major projects.

Tuilaepa said his government was still in negotiations with China for funding other major projects.

One project could potentially be looked at is the Apia wharf reconstruction which is partly funded by the Japanese government.

Photo Loop Samoa 

The grant funding endorsed by the People’s Republic of China will finance the maintenance and revitalization of the Olympic swimming pool, Aquatic Centre at Tu’anaimato and the Apia Park Sports Complex.

Signed by China’s Ambassador to Samoa, Wang Xuefeng and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi in Apia this week, the assistance provides leverage for Samoa to host future international and regional games in Apia.