The PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum is proud to announce Mr. Richard Kassman OBE, as its new President. Mr. Kassman, who has served as Vice President of the Chamber for the past three years, takes over from Gerea Aopi, who had his first engagement with the industry in 1991. Following his announcement as Chamber President, Mr. Kassman highlighted the immense amount of work and advise provided by the outgoing President Mr. Aopi. “My first task as President-elect is to thank outgoing President Gerea Aopi, CBE, Commander of the British Empire. A colossus of a man whose contribution to our industry an indeed his beloved Papua New Guinea, is unrivalled. “Gerea always guided the discourse ensuring being cognizant with national interests, when the Chamber represented its diverse membership and promoted the industry. He served with class and distinction. He was measured, thoughtful and compassionate, and when required, frank and direct. Hallmarks of a courageous servant leader,” Mr. Kassman said. In his final address to Chamber members in the Annual General Meeting, Mr. Aopi provided context to the industry’s efforts to keep operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Amidst the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the country last year, the Chamber has been active in discussing legislation and policy that affects our industry. “Constant dialogue and discussion amongst council members representing Mining and Petroleum, have been at the core of our engagement in the national and political space,” Mr. Aopi said. Mr. Kassman, who is Public Affair and External Communications Manager, with Total E&P PNG Limited, spoke on the future of the mining and petroleum sector, and the work of the Chamber. “The Chamber plays a crucial role in providing discourse on major national issues. And it represents members who are always ready to step in to assist the national leadership in times of national calamity,” Mr. Kassman said. The Chamber of Mines and Petroleum is the peak body representing the Mining and Petroleum sector in Papua New Guinea, and has a wide variety of membership, spanning across both the resource and business sector. It includes most of the active mining and petroleum companies in PNG.