The 30th PNG-AUSTRALIA Ministerial Forum today will have dialogues on the two nation’s bilateral security agreements, including visa issues.
Forum co-chairs, PNG Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong highlighted this when giving their introductory greetings before the actual bilateral meeting this afternoon.
Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, and Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Pila Niningi.
In his remarks, Minister Tkatchenko said: “We will look at and assess the bilateral security agreement and how that’s progressing for the benefit of our bi-lateral partners as well.”
In response, Minister Wong said:
“Again, I am happy to be here, thank you again for hosting.”
“And so, you know, this cut-through committee was set up to try and make sure we resolve difficult issues promptly.”
“Deputy Prime Minister Rosso himself asked us to step into a side room at the Hyatt last year.”
“Since that time, many of the things we have discussed we’ve seen the visa issues that you raised there are much improved.”
“As you (Minister Tkatchenko) said today, we want to focus on continuing those outcomes in our partnership, particularly the bilateral security agreement.”
“It was really pleasing that the Attorney-General was here yesterday and visited the new training facilities at the Hyatt.”
“We’re doing a lot together and we appreciate the political level commitments that this committee has made. Thank you.”