PM Marape thanks China for inviting PNG to participate in the Virtual China International Import Exposition

 Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, has congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping for leading the way for economic recovery through hosting of the third China International Import Exposition last Wednesday.

In a pre-recorded video message, Prime Minister Marape said PNG had participated in the first two expos since 2018, which proved to be a very rewarding experience.

“It gives me great pleasure and honour to represent the Government and people of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, to give remarks at the Opening Ceremony of the 3rd China International Import Expo,” he said.

“I want to thank President Xi Jinping and the Government of China for the Invitation, and extend my warm congratulations on the opening of the Expo.

“The Expo is a gateway for PNG to be connected to China and Asia, which will benefit our companies and people.

"This year’s event will further open the huge Chinese market for high-quality products from PNG and other countries, giving much needed energy to global trade and economic growth at this difficult time.”

Mr Marape said the COVID-19 pandemic, which had impacted countries severely, could be defeated through solidarity and corporation.

He said this was also the way towards global economic recovery.

“It is therefore timely and commendable to hold this great Expo at this critical time,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“As the world's second-largest economy, China’s economic recovery is significant for the rest of the world.

“We are encouraged by the positive growth figures in China, which International Monetary Fund forecasts will be the only major economy to register positive growth this year.

“This Expo, as a major international procurement platform under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, will undoubtedly open up new horizons for other countries to share the opportunities generated by China’s recovery and growth.

“The Belt and Road Initiative has inspired all of us, particularly young developing countries like PNG with a population of about nine million, majority of whom reside in the rural areas.

“I believe that through joining the Belt and Road Initiative, PNG will be able to unlock our economic potential, reach our marginalised population, build connectivity through infrastructure development and bring services and prosperity closer to our people.”

Prime Minister Marape also thanked China for its assistance in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in PNG.

He said when the pandemic hit, China and PNG stood together in solidarity and mutual support.

"We thank China for timely sharing of its experience on combating COVID-19 with PNG and other Pacific Island countries," Prime Minister Marape said.

"After COVID-19 broke out in PNG, the Chinese Government provided cash assistance and sent tons of personal protection equipment as well as ventilators and other equipment.

"I know similar stories happened around the world."

Prime Minister Marape also congratulated President Xi Zinping and his Government for successfully containing the pandemic in China.

Statement

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