PNG Ports has launched its 30-year Port Infrastructure Master Plan recently to look at rehabilitating most of the country’s dilapidating port infrastructures around the country.
Chairman of PNG Ports Kepas Wali said the master plan is in line with the government’s “Take Back PNG” policy to enhance port facilities around the country to grow the economy.
He acknowledged the commitment and support of the board and management of PNG Ports in ensuring that any work, should they be financed by Australia, would be undertaken in a transparent and high quality manner.
The Australian government committed US$300 million (K1 billion) financial support to assist PNG government through State-owned PNG Ports to enhance and upgrade all maritime infrastructure in the country.
Australian High Commissioner Jon Philip said the funding assistance came at the request of the PNG government where Australia is committed to deliver high quality infrastructure for PNG, create jobs and up-skill local people.
Prime Minister James Marape who attended the event assured the tax payers of Australia that there money will be put to good use in the renewal and upgrading of the ports.
State-owned Enterprise Minister William Duma commended the Australian government for focusing on local jobs and local business participation.