22 May 2008

Pacific agencies see big opportunities for the region in the relocation of US troops to Guam

7:48 pm on 22 May 2008

Workers in the Pacific could benefit from the 20,000 jobs which are expected to arise from the relocation of the United States military base from Okinawa in Japan, to Guam.

The Government of Guam, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community have signed a Letter of Understanding to work together to help Pacific Islands countries benefit from the relocation process.

The acting Secretary General of the Forum, Feleti Teo, says they will seek opportunities for people to develop their own livelihoods and their countries' economies.

He says they will also be looking at training opportunities so Pacific people have the requisite qualifications.

Mr Teo says it is imperative that we make our people marketable for all skilled and unskilled employment opportunities.