The NEWS (Monrovia)
Benjamin B. Sworh
1 December 2008
Monrovia — An agreement valued US$8 million aimed at refurbishing the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex (SKD) hotels has been signed between the Liberian government and the Chinese group, Golden Gate Group.
The Chairman of the National Investment, Dr. Richard V. Tolbert, who signed on behalf of government, described the deal as one of the major deliverables of government commitment toward the creation of job opportunities for its citizens.
He said despite the current global financial crisis, international partners were willing to invest in the Liberian economy, adding that Liberia is now a stable country."
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Tolbert disclosed that the Chinese company which is expected to begin work this month will provide employment opportunities for over 600 Liberians.
Finance Minister Augustine K. Nguafuan, who signed on behalf of his Ministry, lauded the Chinese for the willingness to invest in Liberia and urged others to come and take advantage of the opportunity to invest.
He assured that his ministry would work with the Chinese company to ensure that the job is done perfectly so that other companies would be encouraged to invest in Liberia.
Attorney General of Liberia, Cllr. Philip A. Z. Banks said the continuing investment opportunity being provided is a clear manifestation of government willingness to embrace foreign partners in the country.
For his part, the head of the Chinese company, Mr. Jacob Wood expressed gratitude to Government of Liberia for the opportunity afforded them to invest in the country.
Mr. Wood said he would encourage other Chinese investors to invest in Liberia, because according to him, the country has good climate for business and investment.
"I considered myself an African because I stayed in Nigeria for over 35 years so, I don't consider myself as any another citizen other than an African, "the Chinese businessman said.
The Chinese business said he was comfortable with the negotiation and assured that his company would do everything possible to live up to the terms of the agreement.
Mr. Wood later presented a cheque of US$100.000 to Minister Nguafuan as part payment of the lease agreement which cost US$200.000 annually.
The occasion was witnessed by Lands, Mines and Energy Minister, Dr. Eugene Shannon, Environmental Protection Agency boss, Ben Donnie, Youth and Sports Minister Etmonia Tarpeh and other dignitaries
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Dr. Richard v. Tolbert, The world is looking at every investment you and your team at NIC is bringing to Liberia and for the sake of the liberian people. We all know the almighty god is with you in spirit, judgement, and wisdom. Let me say this to my liberian People, as we say in liberia. PATIENCE GOD EAT THE FATTEST BONE!!!! Good Job Dr. Tolbert..