In the digital age, network infrastructure is key to economic development, competitive strength in the global market, and improved quality of life.
Taiwan and St. Lucia have been working together since 2015 on the first phase of the Government Island-Wide Network, or GiNet. During this phase, we installed 63 public wi-fi hotspots in 33 locations across 5 quarters.
This project is not only helping travelers connect more easily. It is also helping bridge St. Lucia’s urban-rural digital divide, and connecting St. Lucians with the rest of the world.
Taiwan has long said that we should turn digital divides into digital opportunities. And we will continue to share our digital success story with the world.
Our Forward-Looking Infrastructure Program places a heavy focus on digital infrastructure. This policy is helping spur Taiwan’s industrial innovation, and our economy is going strong.
And we are more than willing to share our technologies and experiences with St. Lucia. We will continue to expand GiNet’s coverage across the entire island, and work with you to foster St. Lucia’s digital development.
So it is an honor to jointly launch GiNet’s second phase today with Prime Minister [Allen] Chastanet.
Over the years, we have undertaken many major ICT projects together. We have established a national ICT center, ICT resource centers in communities across the island, and an agriculture resource system. All of these help the government work more efficiently.
We are also helping fight crime and improve public safety in St. Lucia through strong digital infrastructure. Our crime management system is helping government and police keep communities safe.
In closing, I want to wish for swift and smooth completion for GiNet’s second phase, and every success for this project in the future.