By GINNAH MINI
THE Minister for Defence, Elias Kapavore, has announced to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and the people of Papua New Guinea (PNG) that the suspended recruitment training for this year is expected to resume as early as September.
Addressing the PNGDF, bilateral partners and stakeholders during his welcome parade at Murray Barracks, Mr. Kapavore said that one of the pressing issues that the Defence Force is facing today is recruitment.
“I have come into the office at a time when recruitment remains a matter requiring urgent attention and resolution,” Mr. Kapavore said.
“I want to assure the Defence Force and the people of Papua New Guinea that we will address this issue decisively so that
we can continue to train, grow and develop the force in accordance with the government direction.”
Mr. Kapavore said that the recruitment process remains a subject to the completion of the necessary administrative processes, including the removal of those recruits deemed unfit to continue.
“Once these matters are resolved, we will move forward and ensue that the recruitment and training continuum remains active and effective,” he said.
Mr. Kapavore has also assured the nation that the government remains fully committed to accommodating and implementing the Pukpuk Treaty signed with Australia.
“Discussions are currently underway regarding the most effective mechanisms for implementation, and once those arrangements are finalised, appropriate announcements will be made at the ministerial level,” Mr. Kapavore said.
“I also wish to assure our valued partners in Australia, the United States, New Zealand, France, United Kingdom, China, Japan, Republic of Indonesia, China, and other friendly nations that Papua New Guinea deeply values these relationships.”
He said that they will continue to strengthen and advance the cooperative programs and initiatives that they have established together over the years.
Mr. Kapavore said that he accepted the responsibility with humility, commitment, and determination to work closely
with the defence force, department of defence, the government and partners to ensure that they continue to build a capable, professional, and respected defence organization.