Pacific

Faster connectivity on the way for FSM

06:50 am on 23 December 2014

[s Broadband internet is a step closer to Micronesia with the World Bank announcing cost reductions and wider bandwidth.

Broadband internet is a step closer to Micronesia with the World Bank announcing cost reductions and wider bandwidth.

Photo: AFP

The bank's board has approved the second phase of its Pacific Regional Connectivity Program, which consists of a $47.5 million US dollar grant.

The project will be co-financed by a planned $25 million US dollar Asian Development Bank loan to the Republic of Palau.

The World Bank says the project will involve the construction of submarine cable systems to connect Palau with the FSM states of Yap, Chuuk and Pohnpei and the US territory of Guam, as well as the provision of next generation satellite broadband for the FSM state of Kosrae.

The Pacific Country Director for the World Bank, Franz Drees-Gross, says affordable technology will improve social and economic opportunities for individuals, businesses, government and nongovernment agencies.