Named after the Marianas traditional sailing canoe, the Proa, the subsea cable will be laid down from Japan to the CNMI. Photo: Supplied
The Northern Marianas is set for better broadband, with Google announcing a USD$1 billion investment through two new subsea cables.
These cables, named Proa and Taihei, are to improve digital connectivity between the United States and Japan.
Named after the Marianas traditional sailing canoe, the Proa, one of these subsea cable will be laid down from Japan to the Marianas.
It's the first cable that is a direct connection, as all other prior fibre lines came from Guam.
Governor Arnold Palacios said the cable paves the way for economic growth and enhances disaster resilience.
"The Proa project is a shining example of what can be achieved when innovation meets determination, and is but one in a series of future subsea connections we anticipate in the next few years," he said.
CNMI Broadband Policy and Development Office special assistant Glen Hunter said Proa will have a transformative impact on the lives of the people in the Marianas.
"Today, we stand on the brink of a new era for our islands, all thanks to this historic partnership," he said.
Global Network Infrastructure at Google Cloud vice president, Brian Quigley, said he's excited about the long-term benefits that these latest Pacific initiatives will bring to the people.
"We'll continue to share more as we continue working with partners to reduce the digital divide across the Pacific," he said.
"With increased access to digital services, more people can take advantage of skill development and career opportunities, while businesses and public sector organisations can better serve their customers and constituents."