THE Madang Provincial Government is looking forward to boost its economy as the Government prepares to sign a Joint Venture agreement with RD Tuna Fishing Limited in the coming weeks.
This was revealed by Madang Governor Hon Ramsey Pariwa during a press conference on Friday.
“National Executive Council has approved the agreement, and the signing is set to take place in early September, marking the State’s partnership with RD Fishing,” Governor Pariwa said.
Governor Pariwa explained that this agreement would initiate the first phase of the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone (PMIZ) project. The second phase will focus on developing enabling infrastructure, such as extending the wharf and improving electricity, which he identified as one of the country’s major challenges.
He is committed to advancing these infrastructure projects to drive change and development in the region.
Governor Pariwa said that the PMIZ has been a long-held dream for the people of Madang, one that has spanned nearly 20 years since its inception.
“We are tired of empty promises. We’ve heard about the PMIZ for so long, and nothing has materialized,” he said. “Now, we want to see this dream become a reality. It must be realized by this government.”
The Governor thanked Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso, who recently led a delegation to Indonesia. The visit facilitated numerous productive discussions on economic and investment opportunities.
“We have often overlooked Indonesia, despite it being our neighbor, while searching far and wide for solutions,” Governor Pariwa noted.
“This visit was highly educational and eye-opening, revealing Indonesia’s potential to assist Papua New Guinea.”
Meanwhile, the Madang Provincial Government is eager to adopt some of Indonesia’s special economic zone models and plans to arrange a site tour with Indonesian experts.
Governor Pariwa further revealed that the PMIZ will be an integrated special economic zone, and the people of Madang are ready for the project to commence.
“While on the State negotiating team, I will advocate for a domestic policy requiring fisheries and marine resources to be processed locally,” Governor Pariwa added.
