The relationship between Australia and the Pacific Island nation of Nauru began a new chapter following the signing of the latest Memorandum of Understanding on 31 July 2008.
At the signing in Canberra with Minister for Foreign Affairs Stephen Smith, Nauru's Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Kieren Keke expressed his gratitude for Australia's commitment.
'This MOU is significant for a number of reasons. Firstly, the degree and range of assistance Australia is committing to support Nauru's development is significant. Nauru has in recent years faced major challenges and has undergone reforms across many sectors. This has been a necessity but has also largely only been possible due to the strong support of our development partners, most notably Australia. This fifth MOU supports Nauru's own national sustainable development strategy and will work to develop Nauru's long term viability,' he said.
Minister Smith said the MOU reflects Australia's commitment to want to be a good international citizen in its region and to do its bit to ensure that nation-states in the Pacific have the chance to build their capacity of institutions to provide decent health and education services for their people.
'It also reflects an increased focus on effective development assistance to Nauru following the closure of the Offshore Processing Centre on Nauru in March 2008,' Mr Smith said.
Australian development assistance to Nauru supports health, education, economic and financial management and capacity building of their public sector, including the police force.
In 2008-09, the Australian Government will provide up to $29 million in development assistance to Nauru. This includes new funding initiatives, as well as existing AusAID programs and activities managed by other agencies including the Australian Federal Police and the Attorney-General's Department.
Dr Keke said Nauru is looking forward to striking agreement with Australia on a long-term Pacific Partnership for Development by the time the MOU expires next June.
Caption: Nauru's Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Kieren Keke and Minister Stephen Smith sign the Fifth Memorandum of Understanding between Australia and Nauru on 31 July 2008
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