New Zealand to provide more funds for redevelopment of Barbuda

New Zealand is to provide an additional half a million US dollars to help in the re-development of Barbuda, the country’s newly appointed High Commissioner, Anton Ojala said.

Ojala, who held talks with Foreign Affairs Minister E.P.Chet Greene, said Auckland is providing the funds to the United Arab Emirates’ Power Station and Solar PV/Battery Hybrid Plant in Cardington, and will be delivered by their executing agent, the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company – Masdar.

Barbuda was severely devastated by Hurricane Irma when it passed through the Lesser Antilles last year and the diplomat said that climate change is a priority for both our countries “and it presents a scope for us to work together to overcome the common challenges which confront our nations”.

Greene said that the two countries have enjoyed a long standing relationship based on shared Commonwealth heritage, trade and a passion for cricket.

He expressed the Gaston Browne government’s gratitude for the extended contribution towards the recovery efforts on Barbuda, noting that it will go a long way in realizing the government’s vision of transforming Barbuda into a totally green island in the Caribbean.

A statement issued after the talks said that discussions were also held on possible areas of cooperation to include education, training, trade and agriculture.