By GINNAH MINI
Governor General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae has received Letters of Credence Juraj Koudelka, Ambassador of the Czech Republic.
Sir Bob said Papua New Guinea took note of the Czech Republic’s growing interest in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly its commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, promoting values of the United Nations, and advancing shared priorities of security, prosperity, and sustainability.
“We welcome your intention to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as business development, climate change response, environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and development assistance,” Sir Bob said.
“These are critical priorities for Papua New Guinea, as we navigate the challenges of sustainable development while safeguarding our rich natural heritage for future generations.”
He added that despite the geographical distance between the two nations, PNG and the Czech Republic ha remained cordial and without difficulty.
“This is a strong foundation upon which the two nations can further build a more dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership.”
The Governor-General extended his appreciation of the contribution of the Czech Republic in the field of healthcare and infrastructure.
“The construction of hospitals in Wewak, East Sepik province and Goroka in Eastern Highlands province, as well as the medical facility in Madang province, stands as tangible demonstration of your country’s commitment to improving the lives of our people,” he said.
“We look forward with optimism to the successful implementation of the new hospital projects currently under preparation.”
He also commended the longstanding collaboration in scientific research, notably through the work of the New Guinea Binatang Research Centre, and the contributions of Czech scientists.
Ambassador Koudelka said he looked forward to working as a non-resident ambassador of the Czech Republic.
“During my posting, I would like to dedicate attention to the support of business development, coping with climate change, protection of environment and biodiversity, development assistance and cooperation in multilateral organizations,” Mr Koudelka said.
He added that the Czech Republic’s presence in PNG was mostly in medical, including plans to build several hospitals.
“I am looking forward to a fruitful cooperation and advancement of our bilateral relations to the benefit of both our people,” Ambassador Koudelka said.