The Government of Niue and the Government of the People’s Republic of China celebrated the successful completion of the China-Aided Roundabout Road Upgrading Project with a formal handover ceremony held on Monday 21st October 2024.

In addition to the road infrastructure project, the ceremony also marked the handover of four government vehicles and equipment for the upgrading of broadcasting and television services for Broadcasting Corporation Niue (BCN).

The roading project, which began in April 2023, was completed on 30th September 2024. Since its inception, the Government of the Republic of China has provided substantial support, with the project team overcoming challenging weather conditions to deliver the infrastructure improvements. The China-aided project has transformed the main and connecting roads by upgrading subgrade, pavement, culverts, traffic safety facilities, road markings, parking lots, sidewalks, solar streetlights, and road signs.

The Minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure, Honourable Crossley Tatui speaking on behalf of the Government and people of Niue, expressed deep gratitude to China for its invaluable assistance. "I extend my profound appreciation to the Government of the People’s Republic of China and its people for their historic and action-oriented support. The successful upgrade of the 46.1km highway, including the addition of 2.7km of sidewalks, 4.63km of road markings, 92 road signs, 134 solar streetlights, and 6,952 square meters of parking spaces, will have lasting benefits for Niue."

The upgraded highway, extending from Hakupu/Vaiea to Hikutavake, now meets international standards and ensures swift responses to national events and developments. The project now commencing a two year maintenance period between two sides, ensuring the longevity and sustainability of the upgraded infrastructure.

Minister Tatui commended the project's successful completion despite challenges such as adverse weather, a shortage of aggregate supply, and delays in shipping. He acknowledged the dedication of the Government of Niue’s project team, led by Director of Utilities Mr. Clinton Chapman, and thanked the Public Service Commission, the Office of the Secretary to Government, Ministry of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Infrastructure, Ministry of Social Services, the Ekalesia Kerisiano Niue, Village Councils, and private sector partners.

"With joy and confidence, I can conclude that we will continue to strengthen the friendship, trust, and goodwill between our two governments and peoples for a shared and prosperous future."

The Ambassador of the Peoples Republic of China to Niue, His Excellency Mr Wang Xialong in his remarks congratulated Niue on the successful completion of the project and the handover of the vehicles and broadcasting equipment.

"I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Dalton Tagelagi for your leadership and guidance, and to Minister Crossley Tatui for your support. The close cooperation and joint efforts of all participating parties from both countries have made today’s achievements possible. I hope that these projects will enhance the quality of services for the people of Niue, demonstrating the profound friendship and close cooperation between our two nations."

The event symbolizes the ongoing partnership and shared commitment between China and Niue to advance infrastructure, development, and public services for the benefit of Niue’s people.

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