ECONOMIC reform in Papua New Guinea has been the focus of a visit to our northern neighbour by Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Alex Hawke.

“My visit to PNG this week was an opportunity to further strengthen Australia’s relationship with our close friend and neighbour,” Minister Hawke said.

“Australia is committed to supporting PNG’s important program of economic reforms that are designed to strengthen its long‑term fiscal position and resilience,” he said.

“Australia’s support reflects our interests in promoting a stable and prosperous region and demonstrates the close partnership between our countries.”

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Minister Hawke met with PNG treasurer, Ian Ling-Stuckey, Minister for State Owned Enterprises, Sasindran Muthuvel and Minister for National Planning and Monitoring, Sam Basil.

During his visit Mr Hawke also met with local business community members and senior representatives of the World Bank and Asian Development Bank.

“We discussed our shared priorities and interests, such as economic and development cooperation, infrastructure initiatives, labour mobility and Australia’s stepped-up engagement with the Pacific,’ he said.

Ministers also discussed regional coronavirus preparedness.

A feature on maritime trade and logistics in Papua New Guinea will be published in the April magazine edition of Daily Cargo News.