PNG Grants Visa-on-Arrival for Japanese Travelers
Papua New Guinea has taken a historic step by offering visas on arrival for all Japanese passport holders entering the country, International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru has announced. The move, effective from September, marks the first time PNG has introduced this facility for any nation.
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| PNG Grants Visa-on-Arrival for Japanese Travelers |
“This is a very historic and one of the best decisions by the Government in terms of its bilateral, security, and trade and investment relationship with Japan,” Maru said, highlighting the significance of strengthening ties with PNG’s longstanding partner.
Japan remains a key trading partner, importing approximately US$4 billion (K16.3 billion) worth of goods from PNG and exporting about US$250 million (K1 billion) in return. Maru emphasized that the decision also reflects PNG’s confidence in Japanese travelers posing no security threat.
Japanese Ambassador Hisanobu Mochizuki welcomed the announcement, describing the decision as a source of “joy and excitement” within Japan’s tourism and business sectors. He noted the anticipation for Air Niugini to resume direct flights between Port Moresby and Narita.
Mochizuki also confirmed that planning has begun for a new international airport in Tokua, East New Britain, stating it will be “no less than the Tomodachi International Airport in Morobe” and a project PNG can be proud of.
Maru noted the historical significance of East New Britain for Japan, referencing World War II cemeteries, caves, and memorials. He further encouraged Japanese investors to explore opportunities across PNG’s resource and non-resource sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and fisheries.
“PNG has enjoyed a very good 50-year friendship with Japan who is our second biggest aid donor,” Maru said. “We want to elevate that relationship and anchor it on trade and investment through a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement as soon as practical.”
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