‘Italian luxury Maserati for APEC leaders in PNG paid for by private sector’

The delivery of Maserati Quattroporte sedans in Papua New Guinea has been welcomed by the APEC Minister Justin Tkatchenko.

Tkatchenko said that the purchasing of the vehicles did not cost the government any money as stated by those who continue to bring the APEC meeting into disrepute.

These 40 vehicles are super executive sports cars, which retail in the European Market, at around US$70, 000 (K229,000) each are computerised and will be used to transport world leaders during the Leaders’ Summit.

The first 20 Maseratis were flown into the country on Sunday, and the other 20 on Wedneday (October 10) on Air Bag Cargo’s Boeing 747 from Italy.

“For those who continue to spread lies and bring hype to the issue of the vehicles being brought into the country, the National Government did not pay for any of the vehicles; these vehicles have been bought by the private sector,” he said.

“And once we conclude the APEC Summit, the vehicles will be sold to individuals or businesses that wish to acquire such a car.

“Let’s not get all excited about the vehicles costing the government money, it’s not and let’s get facts first before we say anything.”

“Maserati Quattroporte sedans have been secured and delivered, and are being committed to be paid for.

“The sedans will provide the level of carriage for leaders that is the standard for vehicles used at APEC Summits.

“Papua New Guinea is delivering a world-class APEC Summit and we are ensuring leaders and dignitaries are transported properly between events through APEC week,” he said.

“Having vehicles paid for by the private sector is the smartest way to have use of the vehicles for APEC at no overall cost to the State.

“This is the same as has been done in past events providing vehicles for use by Leaders at Pacific Islands’ Forum meetings and the African Caribbean and Pacific Leaders’ Summit.

“When we were using the V8, Prado and mini vans, and buses during the PIF and Eight African Caribbean and Pacific Leaders’ Summit it was resold once the meetings concluded, it’s the same, let’s not jump to conclusions,” he said.

SOURCE: POST COURIER/PACNEWS