PNG thank New Zealand for Aid

Guard of Honor to PNG Prime Minister: Photo:  The National

Prime Minister Peter O'Neill has praised New Zealand for its 22 million US dollar or about 55 million Kina aid programme to PNG.

Mr O’Neill , who is on a two-day visit to New Zealand, had discussions in Wellington with his New Zealand counterpart John Key today.

Radio New Zealand International reports, the two governments have agreed to maintain and bolster cooperation in areas including renewable energy, agriculture, and peace and security efforts in Bougainville.

Mr O’Neill says his government is very grateful for New Zealand aid projects in PNG’s education, policing and primary industries sectors.

The two governments have signed a Geothermal Energy Cooperation agreement to facilitate the exchange of expertise in this area.

Meanwhile, New Zealand and PNG’s burgeoning bilateral trade relationship is to be boosted by a double tax agreement, which is in the final stages of ratification.

. RNZI