The United States (US) Coastal Guard’s Vessel entering into Papua New Guinea (PNG) waters marks an exciting collaboration between the two countries, focusing on mutual interest of minimizing exploitation in PNG waters.
The U.S Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) MYRTLE HAZARDS with advanced navigation, communication systems allow smooth coordination between both enforcement agencies of both Nations.
The U.S Coast Guard vessel will now be in action closely monitoring illegal and unregulated activities along the PNG’s maritime borders, and development of countering other allusive transnational maritime activities.
Charge d’ Affairs of the U.S Embassy to PNG Mr. Mathew Bunt stated that the U.S Coast Guard provides the vessel, crew, and other resources to work together with PNG counterparts, using various systems to identify any incursions into PNG waters.
“The rider program’s objectives are to assist patrol in PNG waters, protect marine time borders, to defend PNG’s sovereign territory and to promote sustainable practices,” said Mr. Bunt.
“This is an exciting moment for our partnership, not just between our militaries, but for our government, our country and our people.”
The Ship Rider program was planned by PNG Government Official experts with the support of the U.S Coast Guard.
The U.S Coast Guard will work closely with the PNG law enforcement experts.