Papua New Guinea’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Commerce and Industry, Hon. Sam Basil, MP, has welcomed the start of the new Government in the United States, and the ground-breaking achievements of the new Vice President.
“Our Government applauds the peaceful transition of power in the United States to the Presidency of Joseph Biden and his administration,” Deputy Prime Minister Basil said.
“It was also very heartening to watch the swearing-in of Kamala Harris as the Vice President of the United States.
“As a person of African and Asian heritage, and as a woman, she has broken many of the barriers that should not exist and are slowly being removed right around the world.
“All people are created equal and should never be held back because of the colour of their skin, their gender, or if they are from rich families or poor.
“I hope seeing Vice President Harris in her new position will also serve as an inspiration for women and girls in our Nation, and they can see that there should be no barrier to stop you from realising your dreams and rising to high office.
“At the next General Election I hope there will be many women voted into Parliament, and in the future we will have women Deputy Prime Ministers and Prime Ministers.
“The United Labour Party is seeking to endorse a record number of women candidates at the next election who represent workers from right around the country.”
Mr. Basil reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to work with the new United States Government, as with all bilateral partners, to enhance prosperity in the region.
“I look forward to working with Vice President Harris, and the incoming United States Government Secretaries in economic portfolios, to promote increased trade an investment in our region.
“There are a number of American companies that are important investors and employers in Papua New Guinea, and we will continue to work together for profitable and shared benefits.
“In foreign affairs Papua New Guinea has long been and will continue to be a friend to all and enemy to none, and this will always remain our position.”
