Pacific

Niue to present strategic plan to NZ

16:19 pm on 19 June 2003

The Premier of Niue, Young Vivian, says a five-year strategic plan to be presented to the New Zealand government next week shows good vision.

The plan follows talks earlier this year with senior members of the New Zealand government, including the prime minister, Helen Clark.

The plan focuses on three potential revenue earners to try and stabilise the island's economy - namely, vanilla growing, tourism and fishing.

New Zealand has indicated it will provide additional assistance for Niue, though this is unlikely to be a direct financial grant.

It has indicated it may provide specialist assistance from various public agencies to help the Niue Government function more effectively.

As well, the plan calls for the establishment of a Trust Fund - a topic that has been promoted unsuccessfully by four previous governments.

The Weekly Niue News says the Fund is seen as an attempt to provide an ongoing long-term revenue savings base for the island.