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Samoa's main port upgrade completed in Apia

Cruise ship docked

Apia, SAMOA — Samoa's capital has a newly upgraded port facility at Matautu.

The US$30-million project to improve safety and efficiency at Apia's main port has taken two years and was opened this week by the Japanese ambassador to Samoa, Shinya Aioki.

The Samoa Observer reports that the project is fully funded by the Japanese government under the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Ambassador Aioki told the paper the new port can now bring to Samoa "many more foreign tourists who would appreciate the beautiful nature, unique traditions and kind hospitality of the Samoan people."

The upgrade includes a 103-metre extension of the new berth and the rehabilitation and expansion of the new passenger walkway.

Samoa's Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said the upgraded port helps the Government's development aspirations of a "sustainable, safe, secure and environmentally friendly transport network that supports Samoa's economic and social development."

Apia Port handles approximately 97% of all foreign goods trade for Samoa.