PNG Embassies and High Commissions have no money to operate

Papua New Guinea Opposition Leader Sam Basil has called on the foreign affairs Minister to explain what the government will be doing to keep PNG Embassies and High Commissions functioning in light of reports that they have no more funds to operate.

“As of today most of the foreign missions that represent PNG through Embassies and High Commissions have not been paid in the last two fortnights and this will be running to the third fortnight,” he said.

“We understand that they are now resorting to collecting visa fees paid by citizens of other countries coming to PNG and using it as operation funds, including paying their wages.”

Basil also revealed that most of the PNG Embassies and High Commissions are under threat of closing down due to non payment of rental fees.

“This is a direct result of the foreign reserves that is fast depleting,” he said.

The big question now is will the O’Neill/ Dion government address this. Therefore the Opposition Leader wants Foreign Affairs Minister Rimbink Pato to come out and explain what is being done because it’s a big shame for the country, especially when PNG has so many natural resources available to generate much income for the country.

Basil revealed all this in a press conference held this afternoon at parliament.