MEDIA RELEASE
14 May 2007
For immediate release
AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSIONER BACKS APNGBC
The Australian High Commissioner to PNG, His Excellency Mr Chris Moraitis, has pledged to work with the Australian PNG Business Council (APNGBC) to progress important issues identified at the recent Business Forum in Cairns, Australia.
Mr Moraitis made the commitment during a welcome dinner in Port Moresby for the recently elected President of the APNGBC, Mr Ian Clarke.
The dinner was part of Mr Clarke’s first official visit to PNG since being elected in March. Executives of both the APNGBC and the Business Council of PNG also attended the event.
Mr Moraitis said: “I reaffirm the Australian Government's commitment to strengthening and building on the already close business links between Australia and PNG. These close links were reflected in the strong attendance by business leaders at the recent Australia PNG Business Forum in Cairns.
“I look forward to working with the APNGBC in assisting them progress key issues identified at the Forum.”
The 23rd Australia PNG Business Forum, which was organised by the APNGBC with the Business Council of Papua New Guinea, ran from 18 to 20 March. The Forum is the major annual bilateral business meeting between Australia and PNG.
Mr Clarke said that the Forum had identified a range of important issues which would form the basis of the APNGBC’s forward work program.
He said: “It is of the highest importance for the APNGBC to work with governments and business in both countries in order to develop a vibrant small to medium business sector which will generate sustainable employment within PNG.”
Other issues identified at the Forum – which will form part of the Council’s work program – include law and order, infrastructure development and reform, education, labour market access, improving opportunities for women in business, HIV/AIDS and the development of agriculture.
Media Inquiries: Raymond Palangat, Public Diplomacy Officer, T: 325 9333 ext 454