AUSTRALIA AND PNG STRENGTHEN TIES

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop arrived in Port Moresby today with a  focus on strengthening economic and business ties between Australia and Papua New Guinea.

Other significant issues such as visa arrangements, aid programs and the asylum processing centre were part of discussions.

Ms Bishop met Prime Minister Peter O’Neill before engaging with counterpart Minister Rimbink Pato.

After lengthy discussions with Mr Pato, senior cabinet ministers and partners, a press conference was held.

In her opening remarks Minister Bishop said, the Australian Government wishes to elevate the current friendship and enhance economic ties.

She says, it’s all about people to people links and the prosperity of Australia and PNG in the region.

Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Rimbink Pato applauded Ms Bishop’s visit saying, the discussions are to renew commitments by the 2 governments.

Ms Bishop will address the Australia-PNG Business Council breakfast tomorrow before departing to Lae to make few announcements at the Lae Angau General Hospital. PNG Today/EMTV