Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko has released a statement reiterating his utmost appreciation to his counterpart from the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, over their recent bilateral meet in Port Moresby this month. He also reassured PNG’s commitment to China. “I want to take this opportunity to reassure Foreign Minister Wang Yi of Papua New Guinea’s support to the ‘One China’ policy since both countries established diplomatic relations in 1976, which has been the cornerstone of PNG-China relations, and will be maintained going forward.” “I want to acknowledge and encourage China’s continued support in its implementation of Chinese Government funded projects in PNG that has greatly contributed towards our developed aspirations.” These include several agreements signed during the one-day visit on Saturday April 20. These agreements include a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for PNG to export coffee and cocoa into China; funding of K3.8 million for disaster relief donation; and Information Communication Technology Cooperation of K1.02 million for the Joint Feasibility Study for the Free Trade Agreement. Minister Tkatchenko said 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 developing nations. “I want to reassure Foreign Minister Wang Yi of the importance PNG places on its bilateral relations with China that friendship should be built on trust, and PNG values China as an important bilateral partner.” Minister Wang made his third official visit on April 20, holding bilateral meets with government ministers, concerning economic arrangements in different sectors. He also paid a courtesy call to Prime Minister James Marape on Sunday, April 21 before departing for Cambodia.