Saridan

[Rogue]

Pietersburg - The Department of Infrastructure and Transport celebrated last night when the Volksraad approved a package of nearly 5 billion in infrastructure improvements. Saridan's infrastructure has long been failing in several key aspects, largely thanks to a confusing system of local, provincial and federal roads. Secretary Gizelda du Preez took office a year ago promising to change the fate of Saridani infrastructure, with the backing of the Pienaar government. The past year she had designed a plan to significantly improve the situation on the ground. With her "one dollar, two side" initiative, she now seeks to improve both Federal and Provincial infrastructure. Under the initiative, every Saridani Dollar spend on federal infrastructure will see another dollar transfered to the provinces in order to improve infrastructure. Additionally, all federal resources will be available for provinces as well, delivering them free expertise to expand and improve their provincial infrastructure. 

The 5 billion package was needed to modernize and improve the Pietersburg International Airport, as well as construct a new federal "coastal highway" seeking to improve connectivity between mainland coastal cities and towns. The funding for this package caused uproar and delays, as the Volksraad was unwilling to commit billions in funding for both defense and infrastructure. Secretary du Preez sat down with her colleague, the secretary of foreign affairs, Ruan Cilliere, to discuss the potential for foreign investment in these projects. After several meetings, Cilliere announced that the Dual Republic of Narikaton and Darnussia has committed nearly 3 billion in investments, combined with 5 billion in interest free loans totalling 8 billion. In exchange for the investments the Dual Republic will receive a minority share in both the Pietersburg and Kaap naval ports. 

With the 8 billion pledged, Secretary du Preez convinced the Volksraad to pay ahead the initial 5 billion needed to launch the projects, with money from the Dual Republic expected to enter the country later. The additional 3 billion will be diverted to the provinces as a initial payment, with the Volksraad deciding on another 2 billion in funding under the "one dollar, two side" initiative of du Preez. Not only will Saridan forge a closer economic partnership with the Dual Republic under this deal, it will also mean a significant improvement of infrastructure in the country. The modernized Pietersburg International Airport is expected to see a increase in traffic of up to 55%, as well as gaining additional freight capacity which will improve logistics in the province. The coastal highway project will likely improve connectivity and economic cooperation between regions and lastly the billions in funding for provinces is expected to significantly improve many provincial railways and roads which have long been notorious for their poor quality. 

du Preez thanked lawmakers for their support and promised that her department would "work day and night to make sure these funds are invested efficiently and deliver a more connected Saridan for all our citizens."