PNG Prime Minister Peter O'Neill extends Condolences to Vanuatu's former PM

PNG Prime Minister . Peter O’Neill on behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea has passed the country’s condolences to the Vanuatu Government on the passing of her former Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neill in a letter dated 30 July 2015, to the Prime Minister of Vanuatu Sato Kilman said PNG join the rest of the Pacific and global leaders in sharing their loss. "On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I join the rest of the Pacific and global leaders in expressing our heartfelt condolences to the Natapei family, the Government and people of the Republic of Vanuatu for your loss of a great leader and former Prime Minister, the Late Hon Edward Natapei."

"His loss is not only felt in Vanuatu but in the Pacific region and the wider international community. He was an outstanding Statesman, a good friend to Papua New Guinea and a strong proponent of Melanesian solidarity and co-operation, who has been admired and respected both regionally and globally.” Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neill said.

"Papua New Guinea fully acknowledges with deep admiration, his immense commitment and contribution to the nation building of Vanuatu, and through his leadership roles in the region including chairmanship of the MSG in 2008 during his term as Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu.

"We salute the Late Hon Edward Natapei for fulfilling this mandate in his leadership with integrity and distinction. His leadership legacy in the Pacific will live on.

"As we bid him a great Statesman’s farewell, may the memories of his life and work be mirrored in the coming years by future leaders of our Region. May his soul rest in eternal peace." Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neill said in his letter.