Vessels berthed at ports around Fiji bring with them undeniable development.

This was highlighted by the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama while commissioning a new Government Shipping Services complex at Walu Bay in Suva, last Thursday.

“As ships sail into Suva Harbour, they bring with them undeniable signs of progress; they are bringing a greater variety of goods,” Mr Bainimarama said.

“They are bringing a greater number of tourists, and they are bringing both growth and competition that puts money in the pockets of ordinary Fijians,” he said.

He said the newly constructed office will house the Government Shipping Services staff and provide a conducive environment to enable them to provide Government shipping renewed vigour.

“First, I’d like to turn our attention to the newly-constructed office and warehouse building that will house the Department of Government Shipping Services,” he said.

The previous structure, built back in 1982, had deteriorated to a state where equipment and cargo could not be safely stored.

“Realising this, we worked to bring the office and warehouse up to par with the rest of the Fijian economy— standing here today, we can see that this goal has clearly been accomplished,” he said.

He said the new facility is evidence of his Government continued commitment in investing Fiji’s infrastructure.

“And to markedly improving the workplace conditions of all Government employees,” he said.

“As we stand here today on the shores of this hub of business and hive of maritime activities, we can see physical proof of the incredible progress that has been achieved under my Government’s economic stewardship.

“By any means or measure, from land to sea, we have witnessed modernisation and growth unlike anything Fiji has ever seen.”