PNG-China relationship of trust says PNG’s top diplomat Justin Tkatchenko

Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko reassured China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi of Papua New Guinea's support to the "One China" policy had not changed since establishment of diplomatic relations in 1976.

PNG was one of the first countries in the region to establish diplomatic relations with China, a year after gaining political independence from Australia. 

"Friendship should be built on trust, and PNG values China as an important bilateral partner,” Minister Tkatchenko told his counterpart.

Saturday bilateral meeting had discussions covering range of issues and few Memorandum of Understandings [MoU] were signed in the field of Information and Communication Technology, export of coffee and cocoa beans and K3.8 million in disaster relief.

Furthermore, China will spend K1.02 million to fund the joint feasibility study for the Free Trade Agreement.

PNG’s top diplomat described China as a Pacific Region friend.  

“At the regional level, China's presence in the Pacific region is to promote development cooperation and enhance collective efforts towards addressing challenges faced by both Pacific Island Countries and China, as [a] developing nation," Mr Tkatchenko said.

This morning courtesy call to Prime Minister James Marape for breakfast, concludes Chinese Foreign Minister's 24-hour visit to Port Moresby.