PNG Prime MinisterPeter O'Neill Applauds Electoral Processes in Fiji, New Zealand and Scotland

Prime Minister. Hon Peter O’Neill CMG MP, has praised the peaceful and transparent democratic process that has taken place in three of Papua New Guinea’s partner countries over the past week.

The Prime Minister has written to the leaders of Fiji and New Zealand congratulating them on their successful campaign outcomes, and has conveyed his satisfaction with the transparent way in which the Scottish independence referendum was undertaken. “The national elections in Fiji and New Zealand, and the referendum on Scottish independence demonstrate the embrace for democratic process in each of these countries,” Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neill said.

“In particular, the global community was pleased to see the peaceful election in Fiji that has resulted in the election of Prime Minister Bainimarama. “This has been several years in the making and Prime Minister Bainimarama has been true to his commitment to hold a democratic election.

“We now look forward to the process of welcoming Fiji back into important international forums including the Pacific Islands Forum and the Commonwealth.”

Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neill also acknowledged the clear electoral victory of Prime Minister John Key in New Zealand. “Prime Minister Key has demonstrated leadership in domestic and foreign policy issues. “Papua New Guinea has strong cultural and economic ties with New Zealand and we are very interested to see these expand.

“New Zealand provides very welcome capacity building support to Papua New Guinea in areas such as SME development, human resource capacity building, expanding access to renewable energy opportunities and supporting peace and stability on Bougainville.

“We have also received offers from New Zealand to enhance preparations for hosting APEC meetings through to 2018.”
The Prime Minister said the outcome of the independence vote in Scotland is a demonstration of the value of unity in national identity, regardless of differences due to geography or tradition.

“The Scottish people have elected to stay in union with the rest of Great Britain and there is good reason for this. As part of a larger country the citizens have access to economies of scale including better healthcare, education and trade.

“Managing differences within a nation is an issue with which Papua New Guinea is familiar. With such diversity in tradition and culture across our country we have worked to build harmony and to ensure all Papua New Guineans share in our growing economy. “We applaud the people of Scotland for their conduct in this voting process.”