By BENSON WEMA
MINISTER for Defence, Hon. Dr Billy Jospeh, has acknowledged the Republic of Indonesia for brining in timely humanitarian aid supplies to the Papua New Guinea National Disaster centre.
Minister Joseph was among other senior government officials to receive the humanitarian aid supplies at the welcome reception of the delegates from Republic of Indonesia.
On behalf of the national government, Dr Billy officially welcomed the delegates from the Republic of Indonesia to Papua New Guinea upon their arrival at APEC Terminal in Port Moresby on Tuesday.
“On behalf of the Government and the National Disaster committee, I take this opportunity to make welcome and extend my most sincere gratitude to the delegation from Indonesia,” the Minister said.
“Thank you for coming all the way from Jakarta to deliver this much needed disaster relief supplies to the people of Papua New Guinea,” he said.
The Indonesian delegation was led by the Ambassador of Indonesia to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency Andrianna Supandy and the Head of the Indonesian National Management Authority, Suharyanto.
Minister Joseph said it was a very unfortunate time for the PNG to go through unprecedented natural disaster and seeing support coming from neighbouring states gives a lot of boosts to the relief program that is being carried out by the government.
“On May 2024, an unprecedented natural disaster occurred, claiming more than 10, 000 lives while some were under pain and suffering.
“Roads and bridges were destroyed, causing much of business activities coming to a standstill.”
The Minister acknowledged the Indonesian Government for recognising the need and coming on board to donate relief supplies at this crucial time.
He added that the relief support speaks volume of the close relationship between PNG and Indonesia. “We recognize and appreciate this initiative by your government and we looking forward to providing these relief supplies to the affected areas.”
