By GEORGINA MICHAEL
Morobe Governor Hon. Rainbo Paita has called on the government to pursue serious discussions with China on trade, downstream processing, and Special Economic Zones.
Raising the matter during question time in parliament today, Mr. Paita said with due respect to Australia and PNG’s close bilateral relationship, China’s growth in manufacturing, technology and economy presents major opportunities for PNG.
“China is now leading as the mother of manufacturing in the world. There is unimaginable growth, expansion and technology, at some stage it will surpass America. It is now our biggest trading partner. Is there an appetite for us to have serious discussions with China on downstream processing and the expansion of Special Economic Zones, or is it just talk?”
In response, Minister for International Trade and Investment Hon. Richard Maru acknowledged the question and said PNG must follow the example of Australia and New Zealand.
“Our future of trade and investment is with China. They are our biggest trading partner right now. They are also the biggest trading partner of Australia and New Zealand. They have free trade agreements with both countries,” Mr. Maru said.
“With Australia we have a Defence treaty and that is respected. But when it comes to trade and investment, we are going to China now.”
The Minister announced that PNG has already signed an agreement with its Chinese counterparts.
“I am happy to announce in Parliament that we are going to start trade negotiations with China for a trade agreement between PNG and China for the first time. As soon as Cabinet approves the paper, the negotiations will start this year,” Mr. Maru said.