PRIME Minister James Marape has expressed a warm welcome to Chinese Foreign Minister, His Excellency Wang Yi, who begins his official visit to Papua New Guinea over the weekend.
Minister Wang arrived in Port Moresby on Saturday, April 20, 2024, and met with PM Marape the next day.
“I warmly welcome Minister Wang to Papua New Guinea as this marks his third visit to our country,” PM Marape said.
“I first met him early in my tenure as prime minister.”
PM Marape noted that the relationship between China and Papua New Guinea continues to strengthen.
“We maintain our One-China Policy, a cornerstone of the Pangu Pati since 1975, alongside our Friends to All, Enemies to None Policy.
“We do not intend to compromise our relationship with China, or with any other country, for that matter.”
He recounted several meetings with Chinese President H.E. Xi Jinping since taking office, which have significantly enhanced bilateral relations.
“For instance, following my visit to China last year, we initiated weekly flights between Guangzhou and Port Moresby.
“We are also opening a Trade Office in Guangdong Province,” PM Marape said.
“By June this year, we aim to complete a joint feasibility study on free trade between our two countries. Papua New Guinea has also joined the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
“I am particularly pleased that PNG can now directly export agricultural produce to China, a milestone that is close to my heart.
“I extend my gratitude to the Chinese leadership for making this possible.”
PM Marape further highlighted ongoing efforts towards establishing reciprocal visa arrangements and using the Chinese currency in trade between China and PNG.
“We are also benefiting from various development programmes run with Chinese assistance,” he said.
“The visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister further strengthens our relationship and solidifies our ongoing partnerships.”
