Lands Minister Filimoni Vosarogo announced that the travel costs for six ministers visiting Vanua Levu were covered by the Government. When questioned about their pledge to implement cost-cutting measures discussed during the election campaign, Mr. Vosarogo emphasized the significance of their participation in the event for bilateral relations.
The group, which included two ministers and four assistant ministers, attended an event in Namuka at the invitation of the Japanese Embassy, where they inaugurated a new classroom block and delivered a fiberglass boat to a local health facility.
“We received the invitation from the Japanese Ambassador, and we are demonstrating respect for our partners,” Mr. Vosarogo stated. He clarified in response to inquiries from the media, that the expenses for the trip were funded by taxpayers and not by the embassy.
“This is part of our responsibilities. We will also be inspecting projects that align with our ministry’s objectives,” he added. Mr. Vosarogo indicated that the ministers were also there to understand the challenges faced by the residents of Namuka and explore potential solutions.