No condition binding SI to make immediate loan:
Quoting the Island Sun newspaper – 24 September 2019
“There are no such conditions as binding Solomon Islands to make a loan immediately after formalizing ties with Peoples Republic of China (PRC).
“Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said this in a recent press statement to make it clear for the public over the question if he can assure the people of the country that Solomon Islands will not fall into a debt trap over its recent switch in diplomatic ties from Taiwan to China.
“PM Sogavare assures that being a responsible government, if they are compelled to make loans then this will be done responsibly.
“Let’s all be clear that there are no such conditions as binding us to make a loan immediately after formalizing ties with PRC.
“We are a responsible government that will ensure that if we are compelled to make loans, this will be done responsibly such that we are in a capable position to repay these loans well in advance to their due dates.
“For instance, loans will only be made for programs and projects that are clearly defined as economic drivers.
Besides, we are not required or binded by any international law to must make a loan. Loans will be only considered if it is necessary and in our best interest,” said PM Sogavare.,”
Copyright @ 2019, Island Sun newspaper.
