15 Aug 2006

Tuvalu's new PM says getting country on financial track a priority

7:55 pm on 15 August 2006

Tuvalu's new Prime Minister says his main priority for the country is to get it back on track financially.

Apisai Ielemia - a former Opposition MP, clerk of parliament and senior civil servant - was sworn in as Tuvalu's new leader this week.

The 51-year-old - who's been in politics for just four years - says he's also keen to try and raise the standard of living for his people.

In his recent address to the nation, he stressed the importance of good governance, transparency and accountability.

He says ensuring Tuvalu is financially sound is a key goal.

"This new government will try to upgrade Tuvalu financially, try to improve its economy, its marketing and production within the country, so that we can produce something and can sell something to our neighbouring countries."

Mr Ielemia says the government will look at ways of creating small income generating activities for families and farmers to improve.