Samoa's prime minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi says Chinese aid to the region this year will allow his country to undertake major developments.
Photo: RNZI / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
Tuilaepa quoted a figure of $US4 billion and told local media several projects would be funded from grants and loans provided by the Chinese.
He said two new bridges would be built including a replacement for the Vaisigano bridge on Beach Road, next to Sheraton Aggie Greys hotel.
The other bridge would span the Mali'oli'o river at Samalaeulu in Savai'i.
Meanwhile, the Japanese government-funded reconstruction of the Apia wharf is due to be completed in June.
A new domestic airport is also planned in the Aleipata district in the east of Upolu island, which would bring the number of domestic airports to four.