A substantial K3.73 million in disaster relief supplies were flown into the country by the Indian Government to assist displaced from the Mt. Ulawun volcanic eruption in West New Britain Province.
On hand to witness and officially receive these crucial supplies was the Nakanai MP Francis Galia Maneke, the First Secretary to Indian Ambassador to PNG Mr. Ravindra Nath, as well as representatives from the Office of the WNB Governor and PNG Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Speaking on behalf of the displaced people and the Marape Rosso Government was the Nakanai MP who conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to India for this timely donations.
“I would like to thank the people of India and their Prime Minister & the High Commission here in Port Moresby for this very important donation.”
The MP said that assessments have been carried out in the care centers for the displaced people and the humanitarian aid from India, would be more than adequate to cover these needs.
Maneke said the donations, which were valued at US$1 million was a great contribution to the disaster relief effort and he again expressed his deep gratitude to India for their generosity and the WNB Provincial Government was now working around the clock, to bring these supplied to the people as soon as they could.
First Secretary to the India Ambassador in PNG, Mr. Ravindra Nath said these relief supplies was a demonstration of their unwavering solidarity and commitment to humanitarian assistance.
He said India had chartered a flight specifically to deliver these donations.
“The relief essentials included crucial items such as tents, sleeping mats, hygiene kits, readymade meals and water storage tanks.”
“This initiative falls under the category of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) supplies, showcasing India’s preparedness to respond swiftly and effectively to humanitarian crises in the region,” Mr. Nath said.
The First Secretary said the aid delivery is a testament to the strong diplomatic ties between India and Papua New Guinea, solidified through initiatives like the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).
“The Indian government’s immediate response reflects its commitment to supporting relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts in Papua New Guinea, echoing the sentiments of friendship and partnership.”