ROSEAU, Dominica – The Chinese government has committed to financing reconstruction of a highway which suffered major damage during Tropical Storm Erika in late August, and help resettle residents displaced by the storm.
The Edward Oliver Leblanc Highway, or West Coast Road, was significantly damaged during the storm that claimed dozens of lives and caused millions of dollars in damage.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said the work would not only repair the damage but will include interventions to reduce the chances of future damage.
“This is a major commitment of assistance and we are very grateful to the government and people of China for this pledge. This is good news for all Dominicans so we should be thankful to the Chinese government,” he said, adding the Chinese government will also assist with resettlement of those displaced by the storm.
“These are two critical areas where the Chinese government will be assisting Dominica in its reconstruction and recovery. I would like to place on public record on behalf of the government and people of Dominica, our sincerest gratitude to the government and people of China for this generous offer.
“I must mention that this is a grant, not a loan, and it’s a gift to us in response to the storm,” Skerrit added.
Turning to his recent trip to Southeast Asia to seek investment opportunities, he said there are tremendous opportunities for Dominica there.