FOREIGN AFFAIRS Minister Hon. Justin Tkatchenko MP says Japan stands out as a quiet achiever sharing 50 years of bilateral relationship with Papua New Guinea through many developments in various sectors.
Minister Tkatchenko made these remarks at his first meeting with the new Japanese Ambassador to PNG, His Excellency Hisanobu Mochizuki at his office last week.
He added that Japan had started a diplomatic relationship with PNG 50 years ago and this year both nations would further strengthen this bilateral partnership by joining in the independence celebrations.
“We’ve done so much work and signed so many wonderful projects and grants from the Japanese government including bridges, vehicles for our police force, education assistance through information technology, fisheries and many more.
“Japanese Defence Force and PNG Defence Force have a long standing cooperation including the military band
which will be used for the 50th anniversary celebrations.
“We will build them up and utilise them for international events and state visit and that’s been a positive social project.
“There will be request if you would be bringing military assets, warship, carriers, fighter jets for display during first week of September where military from around the world will come and parade.”
Minister Tkatchenko acknowledged the Japanese government’s continuous support in infrastructure development especially for airports including Friendship (Tomodachi) International Airport in Lae, Morobe.
He added that negotiations were currently underway for Tokua Airport in Rabaul which has historical significance for both countries.
“Another big support we get from Japan which we want to keep on expanding is the gas and commodities through Exxon Mobil and we thank you.”
“There are many more things we can do together and we are very open to driving our relationship closer than before.”
“We look forward to continuing with your leadership through your new Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, working closely with them for the benefit of both our countries.”
H.E Mochizuki said PNG and Japan share important bilateral and economic relationship which would be further strengthened with a new initiative, Official Security Assistance so its assistance to strengthening capacity of the Defence force.
