Gonsalves

KINGSTOWN, St Vincent (CMC):

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has returned to the island after receiving pledges of support from Taiwan.

Gonsalves told a news conference that Taipei had renewed its commitment to the construction of an international airport, and were considering providing additional funds towards the US$200 million project.

"The Republic of China reaffirms its commitments to assist the Argyle International airport project with the grant and soft loan promised, and if the situation requires, will give favourable consideration to providing an additional grant or soft loan to help St Vincent and the Grenadines offset the rising cost of raw material," Gonsalves said.

He told reporters that he had signed a memorandum of understanding with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francisco H.L Ou, during his 10-day visit to the Asian country.