The Ministry of Natural Resources and Commerce “shot two birds with one stone” by hosting two ceremonies the same day. The first event last Thursday was the handover ceremony of the new “state-of-the-art” x-ray machine at the Amata Kabua International Airport.
The machine will allow Customs and Quarantine officers to scan all passenger luggage for biosecurity risks, safeguarding our natural resources by preventing the entry of pests and diseases that can threaten livelihoods and communities in the RMI, according to a statement from the ministry.
The procurement of this equipment was made possible with the monetary and technical support of the European Union through the Pacific Community (SPC) under the SAFE Project — Safe Agriculture trade Facilitation through Economic integration in the Pacific.
EU Ambassador to the Pacific Barbara Plinkert handed over the equipment to Minister of Natural Resources and Commerce Tony Muller.
Ambassador Plinkert stated that this new x-ray machine is a “tangible example of our commitment to regional resilience, safe travel, and protecting Pacific biodiversity” and “ensuring that trade can continue safely and sustainably.”
Minister Muller extended his sincere appreciation to the EU and the SAFE Pacific program for their generous support. He remarked that “these investments build local capacity, strengthen our institutions and contribute to safer trade, stronger livelihoods and greater resilience for our communities.”
Two hours later, the NRC Ministry, in collaboration with the Taiwan Technical Mission, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony of new infrastructure that is to be built at the old poultry farm facility in Jeirok, Laura. The infrastructure includes a new office/warehouse complex, a new dormitory for incoming staff and a new Pig Slaughterhouse, which was the main component of the event.
This new slaughterhouse will serve as a means to support food security by reducing the reliance on imported pork meat and increase local production of fresh pork. Local farmers will be prioritized in terms of supplying pigs to the slaughterhouse, said the NRC Ministry.
Charge d’Affaires Hank Liu said the “joint groundbreaking ceremony demonstrates the spirit of mutual support and cooperation between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands.”
Minister Muller expressed his deepest appreciation to Taiwan and partners for their dedication and collaboration in making the slaughterhouse a reality. He stated that “this groundbreaking is not just about a building or an infrastructure – it is about investing in people, strengthening livelihoods, and preparing a better future for the next generation.”