Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the highest civilian honours of Fiji and Papua New Guinea&nbsp;on Monday (May 22). This comes as PM Modi travelled to Papua New Guinea on a historic trip and attended the third Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Companion of the Order of Fiji’&nbsp;</h2>

The Indian PM was conferred with the highest honour of Fiji, the ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji’ by his Fijian counterpart, PM Sitiveni Rabuka, in “recognition of his global leadership,” said the Prime Minister’s Office. The statement also said that only a handful of Non-Fijians have received this honour to date.&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs said that PM Modi has dedicated the honour to the people of India and to the generations of the Fiji-Indian community who have played a key role in the special and enduring bond between the two countries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pacific-island-nations-are-large-ocean-countries-not-small-island-states-indian-pm-modi-at-fipic-summit-594916">Pacific Island nations are large ocean countries, not small island states: Indian PM Modi at FIPIC summit</a>

PM Modi also took to Twitter and expressed his gratitude to the people and the government of Fiji as well as PM Rabuka for presenting the award, “It is an honour for the people of India and a recognition of the strong ties between India and Fiji,” said the Indian PM.

<h2>Papua New Guinea’s ‘Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu’ award</h2>

Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae of Papua New Guinea conferred PM Modi with the country’s highest civilian award, ‘Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu (GCL)’ for championing the cause of unity of Pacific Island countries and spearheading the cause of Global South. Former United States President Bill Clinton is among those conferred with the honour in the past.

ALSO&nbsp;WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-papua-new-guinea-pm-touches-visiting-indian-pms-feet-in-show-of-respect-wins-hearts-594791">As Indian PM Modi lands, Papua New Guinea PM touches his feet</a>

The Indian PM also took to Twitter and said he is humbled by the gesture of Papua New Guinea for conferring him with the honour and said that it was a “great recognition of India and the accomplishments of our people.”&nbsp;

<h2>Previous notable awards, and honours conferred&nbsp;on PM Modi</h2>

In 2021, PM Modi was conferred with ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’, also known as ‘Ngadag Pel gi Khorlo’, which is the highest civilian award of Bhutan.&nbsp;Prime Minister Lotay Tshering said that the award was given to his Indian counterpart for the “unconditional friendship/ and support” that he extended over the years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Former United States President Donald Trump, in 2020, had presented the prestigious ‘Legion of Merit’ award to PM Modi for his leadership in elevating the US-India strategic partnership.&nbsp;

In 2019, PM Modi was conferred the ‘King Hamad Order of the Renaissance’ by Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa. He was also the first Indian PM to visit Bahrain at the time and received the honour for efforts to strengthen bilateral relations with the key Gulf nation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g7-summit-concludes-pm-modis-unseen-moments-with-world-leaders-in-japan-594962">G7 summit: Here are some of PM Modi's key moments with world leaders in Japan</a>

The same year, PM Modi was also honoured with the ‘Order of Zayed’ which is UAE’s highest civilian award, for his pivotal role in building a strategic relationship between the two countries.&nbsp;

Russia honoured the Indian PM with the country’s highest civilian honour, ‘Order of St Andrew the Apostle,’ in 2019 for his “exceptional services” in promoting a special and privileged strategic partnership between Moscow and New Delhi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the highest civilian honours of Fiji and Papua New Guinea on Monday (May 22). This comes as PM Modi travelled to Papua New Guinea on a historic trip and attended the third Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the highest civilian honours of Fiji and Papua New Guinea on Monday (May 22). This comes as PM Modi travelled to Papua New Guinea on a historic trip and attended the third Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit. ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji’ The Indian PM was conferred with the highest honour of Fiji, the ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji’ by his Fijian counterpart, PM Sitiveni Rabuka, in “recognition of his global leadership,” said the Prime Minister’s Office. The statement also said that only a handful of Non-Fijians have received this honour to date. The Ministry of External Affairs said that PM Modi has dedicated the honour to the people of India and to the generations of the Fiji-Indian community who have played a key role in the special and enduring bond between the two countries. ALSO READ | Pacific Island nations are large ocean countries, not small island states: Indian PM Modi at FIPIC summit PM Modi also took to Twitter and expressed his gratitude to the people and the government of Fiji as well as PM Rabuka for presenting the award, “It is an honour for the people of India and a recognition of the strong ties between India and Fiji,” said the Indian PM. Papua New Guinea’s ‘Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu’ award Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae of Papua New Guinea conferred PM Modi with the country’s highest civilian award, ‘Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu (GCL)’ for championing the cause of unity of Pacific Island countries and spearheading the cause of Global South. Former United States President Bill Clinton is among those conferred with the honour in the past. ALSO WATCH | As Indian PM Modi lands, Papua New Guinea PM touches his feet The Indian PM also took to Twitter and said he is humbled by the gesture of Papua New Guinea for conferring him with the honour and said that it was a “great recognition of India and the accomplishments of our people.” Previous notable awards, and honours conferred on PM Modi In 2021, PM Modi was conferred with ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’, also known as ‘Ngadag Pel gi Khorlo’, which is the highest civilian award of Bhutan. Prime Minister Lotay Tshering said that the award was given to his Indian counterpart for the “unconditional friendship/ and support” that he extended over the years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Former United States President Donald Trump, in 2020, had presented the prestigious ‘Legion of Merit’ award to PM Modi for his leadership in elevating the US-India strategic partnership. In 2019, PM Modi was conferred the ‘King Hamad Order of the Renaissance’ by Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa. He was also the first Indian PM to visit Bahrain at the time and received the honour for efforts to strengthen bilateral relations with the key Gulf nation. ALSO READ | G7 summit: Here are some of PM Modi's key moments with world leaders in Japan The same year, PM Modi was also honoured with the ‘Order of Zayed’ which is UAE’s highest civilian award, for his pivotal role in building a strategic relationship between the two countries. Russia honoured the Indian PM with the country’s highest civilian honour, ‘Order of St Andrew the Apostle,’ in 2019 for his “exceptional services” in promoting a special and privileged strategic partnership between Moscow and New Delhi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian PM Modi conferred with highest honours of Fiji, Papua New Guinea

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the third summit of the Forum for Indo Pacific Islands Cooperation in Papua New Guinea, said India believes in multilateralism and believes in an Indo-Pacific that is free, open and inclusive. The voice of the Global South in the UN Security Council should be heard loud and clear, added Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks at third FIPIC summit at Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea has entered in a new security cooperation agreement with the United States. US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken was in the island nation to sign the agreement which would expand the Pacific island nation's capabilities and make it easier for the US military to train with its forces Washington along with its allies is trying to keep Pacific Islands from forming security ties with China whose presence in the Pacific has been a rising concern leaders of the Pacifica Islands.

US, Papua New Guinea signs security pact as China's influence grows

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered an address at the third India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea and said New Delhi will continue to help the Pacific island states in "every possible" way.

Indian PM Modi extends full support to Papua New Guinea at FIPIC summit

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Papua New Guinea signed a defense pact with the United States, giving US forces access to its airfields and ports as Washington vies with China’s expanding footprint in the Pacific region.

Papua New Guinea and US ink Defence pact | WION Speed News

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday (May 21) that for him,&nbsp;the Pacific Island nations are "large ocean countries" and not&nbsp;small island states. Co-chairing the&nbsp;third India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Modi said, "For me, you are large ocean countries and not small island states," the news agency ANI reported. Fourteen&nbsp;Pacific Island Countries (PICs) took part in the summit.&nbsp;

Modi said that&nbsp;India believes&nbsp;in multilateralism and supports a free, open, and an inclusive Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

"India is proud to be your development partner. You can count on India as a reliable partner. We are ready to share our experiences and capabilities with you without hesitation," he added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-papua-new-guinea-pm-touches-visiting-indian-pms-feet-in-show-of-respect-wins-hearts-594791">As Indian PM Modi lands, Papua New Guinea PM touches his feet</a>

Modi also said that New Delhi considers its responsibility&nbsp;to convey the concerns of the Global South, their expectations, and their aspirations to the world through the G20,&nbsp;adding this was his last effort in the last two days of the G7 Summit.&nbsp;

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Speaking about Covid, the Indian prime minister said that the impact of the pandemic was most on countries of the Global South.

"Challenges related to climate change, natural disasters, hunger, poverty, and health were already there, now new problems are arising...I am happy that India stood by its friendly Pacific Island countries in times of difficulty," he added, ANI reported.&nbsp;

<h2>You are the leader of Global South:&nbsp;Papua New Guinea PM tells Modi</h2>

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister&nbsp;James Marape&nbsp;thanked Indian PM Modi for assuring him in their bilateral meeting that as India hosts G20 this year, it would advocate on issues related to the Global South.&nbsp;

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Calling Modi the "leader of Global South," Prime Minister Marape said&nbsp;Papua New Guinea would rally behind India's leadership at global forums.&nbsp;

<h2>Modi holds bilateral meeting with&nbsp;Marape</h2>

Before the summit started, Modi held a bilateral meeting with Papua New Guinea PM Marape. Modi also met&nbsp;Papua New Guinea's Governor-General&nbsp;Sir Bob Dadae at the historic Government House.

Taking to Twitter, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson&nbsp;Arindam Bagchi said, "PM Narendra Modi starts off the day in Papua New Guinea with a warm conversation with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae at the historic Government House. Underlined the significance of India-Papua New Guinea ties and development partnership between the two countries."

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday (May 21) that for him, the Pacific Island nations are "large ocean countries" and not small island states. Co-chairing the third India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Modi said, "For me, you are large ocean countries and not small island states," the news agency ANI reported.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday (May 21) that for him, the Pacific Island nations are "large ocean countries" and not small island states. Co-chairing the third India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Modi said, "For me, you are large ocean countries and not small island states," the news agency ANI reported. Fourteen Pacific Island Countries (PICs) took part in the summit. Modi said that India believes in multilateralism and supports a free, open, and an inclusive Indo-Pacific. "India is proud to be your development partner. You can count on India as a reliable partner. We are ready to share our experiences and capabilities with you without hesitation," he added. ALSO READ | As Indian PM Modi lands, Papua New Guinea PM touches his feet Modi also said that New Delhi considers its responsibility to convey the concerns of the Global South, their expectations, and their aspirations to the world through the G20, adding this was his last effort in the last two days of the G7 Summit. #WATCH | India is proud to be your development partner. You can count on India as a reliable partner. We are ready to share our experiences and capabilities with you without hesitation. We believe in multilateralism and support a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific: PM Narendra… pic.twitter.com/sVdBfVutMY — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2023 × Speaking about Covid, the Indian prime minister said that the impact of the pandemic was most on countries of the Global South. "Challenges related to climate change, natural disasters, hunger, poverty, and health were already there, now new problems are arising...I am happy that India stood by its friendly Pacific Island countries in times of difficulty," he added, ANI reported. You are the leader of Global South: Papua New Guinea PM tells Modi Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape thanked Indian PM Modi for assuring him in their bilateral meeting that as India hosts G20 this year, it would advocate on issues related to the Global South. #WATCH | We all come from a shared history. A history of being colonised. History that holds the nations of Global South together. I thank you (PM Modi) for assuring me in the bilateral meeting that as you host G20 this year you will advocate on issues that relate to the Global… pic.twitter.com/0GbyOFbUto — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2023 × Calling Modi the "leader of Global South," Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea would rally behind India's leadership at global forums. Modi holds bilateral meeting with Marape Before the summit started, Modi held a bilateral meeting with Papua New Guinea PM Marape. Modi also met Papua New Guinea's Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae at the historic Government House. Taking to Twitter, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "PM Narendra Modi starts off the day in Papua New Guinea with a warm conversation with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae at the historic Government House. Underlined the significance of India-Papua New Guinea ties and development partnership between the two countries." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pacific Island nations are large ocean countries, not small island states: Indian PM Modi at FIPIC Summit

United States and Papua New Guinea have signed a new bilateral defence pact at a time when China is expanding its influence in the Pacific region, as per reports.&nbsp;This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the capital Port Moresby on Monday and held a meeting with 14 Pacific Island leaders. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gross-interference-china-summons-japanese-envoy-over-g7-communique-594902">'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique</a>

During the signing ceremony, Blinken said, "The defence cooperation was drafted by the United States and Papua New Guinea as equals and sovereign partners."&nbsp;

With this new security agreement, the United States will be able to have more access to military and other facilities in PNG. Blinken on holding a meeting with Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister James Marape said,&nbsp;"New Zealand is an important partner in the Pacific and around the world. &nbsp;U.S.-NZ partnership is key to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region."

<h2>Biden's cut short Asia trip&nbsp;</h2>

Amid a debt crisis in the United States, President Joe Biden cut short his Asia trip last week to address the impending issue of the US debt ceiling that can potentially push Washington into default. His trip included stops in Port Moresby and Sydney, Australia.&nbsp;

<h2>Strategic significance of PNG</h2>

PNG is a key strategic region for the US in the South Pacific and by increasing its reach in the region it can thwart China's growing maritime influence. The Pacific Islands were also the site of key battles during World War Two.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fire-at-indias-delhi-cinema-67-people-inside-hall-safely-evacuated-594909">Fire at India's Delhi cinema, 67 people inside hall safely evacuated</a>

<h2>US-PNG defence pact</h2>

PNG in a statement on Saturday termed the defence pact as an opportunity to boost the islands' infrastructure as well as national defense.&nbsp;“Papua New Guinea does not have enemies but it pays to be prepared. Territorial dispute is (imminent), as in the case of Ukraine-Russia,” the statement said.

“This agreement is not about geopolitics but rather recognizes the country’s need to build its defence capabilities because border disputes are inevitable in the future,” it said. It is interesting to note that the statement said DCA does not stop Papua New Guinea from working with other nations including China.

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The DCA is for 15 years and as per the statement it can be terminated if not satisfied with. "It will not have immunity for criminal conduct of visiting USA forces personnel and assets developed under DCA will be owned by PNG Government and for military installation of the PNG Defence Force," it added.&nbsp;

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United States and Papua New Guinea have signed a new bilateral defence pact at a time when China is expanding its influence in the Pacific region, as per reports.

United States and Papua New Guinea have signed a new bilateral defence pact at a time when China is expanding its influence in the Pacific region, as per reports. This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the capital Port Moresby on Monday and held a meeting with 14 Pacific Island leaders. Also Read | 'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique During the signing ceremony, Blinken said, "The defence cooperation was drafted by the United States and Papua New Guinea as equals and sovereign partners." With this new security agreement, the United States will be able to have more access to military and other facilities in PNG. Blinken on holding a meeting with Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister James Marape said, "New Zealand is an important partner in the Pacific and around the world. U.S.-NZ partnership is key to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region." Biden's cut short Asia trip Amid a debt crisis in the United States, President Joe Biden cut short his Asia trip last week to address the impending issue of the US debt ceiling that can potentially push Washington into default. His trip included stops in Port Moresby and Sydney, Australia. Strategic significance of PNG PNG is a key strategic region for the US in the South Pacific and by increasing its reach in the region it can thwart China's growing maritime influence. The Pacific Islands were also the site of key battles during World War Two. Also Read | Fire at India's Delhi cinema, 67 people inside hall safely evacuated US-PNG defence pact PNG in a statement on Saturday termed the defence pact as an opportunity to boost the islands' infrastructure as well as national defense. “Papua New Guinea does not have enemies but it pays to be prepared. Territorial dispute is (imminent), as in the case of Ukraine-Russia,” the statement said. “This agreement is not about geopolitics but rather recognizes the country’s need to build its defence capabilities because border disputes are inevitable in the future,” it said. It is interesting to note that the statement said DCA does not stop Papua New Guinea from working with other nations including China. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine × The DCA is for 15 years and as per the statement it can be terminated if not satisfied with. "It will not have immunity for criminal conduct of visiting USA forces personnel and assets developed under DCA will be owned by PNG Government and for military installation of the PNG Defence Force," it added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

US, Papua New Guinea sign defence pact amid China's rising influence in Pacific

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Indian Prime Minister is in Papua New Guinea where he addressed the Forum of India-Pacific Islands Cooperation Summit. He also had bilateral talks with the Prime Minister James Marape today. This is the first time that an Indian Prime Minister is visiting Papua New Guinea. India and United States are actively seeking to counter Beijing's influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Indian PM Modi addresses third FIPIC Summit in Papua New Guinea

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21), arrived in Papua New Guinea marking the beginning of the second half of his three-nation visit and what is the first visit by an Indian PM to the island country.&nbsp;PM Modi travelled to Papua New Guinea on a historic trip where he received a grand welcome from the island nation’s Prime Minister James Marape.&nbsp; 
 
As the Indian PM&nbsp;landed in Papua New Guinea, the country's premier was at the airport to receive him and even appeared to touch his feet in the typical Indian way of showing respect to elders.&nbsp;PM Modi&nbsp;arrived&nbsp;just after 10:00 pm (local time) in the capital Port Moresby. 
 
The video shows Modi walking down the ladder of the aircraft which was laid with a red carpet. 
 
As the Modi&nbsp;walked towards him on the tarmac, the PNG PM his shook hands, hugged him, and held his hand before moving down to touch the feet of the Indian leader.&nbsp;

The Indian PM&nbsp;stopped him midway, as sounds of what appeared to be firecrackers or a gun salute were heard in the background. He then patted the back of Marape and hugged him again, before greeting other officials who were present to greet him.

The Indian PM was&nbsp;welcomed&nbsp;by a 19-gun&nbsp;salute and a Guard of Honour, as well as&nbsp;traditional dancers.&nbsp;

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Papua New Guinea PM touches the feet of PM Modi as he lands in the country for a historic visit 
 
India was one of the first countries to send Covid-19 vaccines to the Pacific island nation.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PapuaNewGuinea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PapuaNewGuinea</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Modi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Modi</a> <a href="https://t.co/bTaAMGTpP1">pic.twitter.com/bTaAMGTpP1</a>
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Upon his arrival, the Indian PM also took to Twitter and thanked PM&nbsp;Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming him. "I am thankful to PM James Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming me. This is a very special gesture which I will always remember. I look forward to boosting India’s ties with this great nation during my visit," wrote PM Modi.&nbsp;

PM Modi also&nbsp;took a moment to interact with the people from the Indian diaspora&nbsp;who were waiting for his arrival in the island nation.

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The Indian community in Papua New Guinea came in large numbers and showed remarkable affection. Thankful to them for the memorable welcome. <a href="https://t.co/K1BT4RGe7B">pic.twitter.com/K1BT4RGe7B</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1660274750680346624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"The Indian&nbsp;community in Papua New Guinea came in large numbers and showed remarkable affection. Thankful to them for the memorable welcome," said PM Modi, about the welcome by the Indian community in the island nation. 
 
"The visit underscores the close friendship of India with the Pacific Island countries," said the Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;The Indian PM is visiting the island nation for the third summit of the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation&nbsp;(FIPIC) which he will jointly host with his PNG counterpart on May 22. He will also hold bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and PM Marape.&nbsp;

FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries, namely, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. 
&nbsp; 
During his visit to the island nation, Indian PM Modi will also hold his first meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, who arrived earlier on Sunday.&nbsp;

PM Modi will then leave for Australia where he is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney. However, the Australian leader&nbsp;will be absent from the Pacific summit after United States President Joe Biden&nbsp;cut short his diplomatic tour over US debt crisis talks. Quad summit in Australia was, cancelled as Biden rescheduled his plans and the leaders of the four countries - India, the US, Australia and Japan - met in Hiroshima. 
 
Meanwhile,&nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to represent Washington in place of Biden for a parallel summit in Papua New Guinea with Marape and Pacific leaders on Monday.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21), arrived in Papua New Guinea marking the beginning of the second half of his three-nation visit and what is the first visit by an Indian PM to the island country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21), arrived in Papua New Guinea marking the beginning of the second half of his three-nation visit and what is the first visit by an Indian PM to the island country. PM Modi travelled to Papua New Guinea on a historic trip where he received a grand welcome from the island nation’s Prime Minister James Marape. As the Indian PM landed in Papua New Guinea, the country's premier was at the airport to receive him and even appeared to touch his feet in the typical Indian way of showing respect to elders. PM Modi arrived just after 10:00 pm (local time) in the capital Port Moresby. The video shows Modi walking down the ladder of the aircraft which was laid with a red carpet. As the Modi walked towards him on the tarmac, the PNG PM his shook hands, hugged him, and held his hand before moving down to touch the feet of the Indian leader. The Indian PM stopped him midway, as sounds of what appeared to be firecrackers or a gun salute were heard in the background. He then patted the back of Marape and hugged him again, before greeting other officials who were present to greet him. The Indian PM was welcomed by a 19-gun salute and a Guard of Honour, as well as traditional dancers. Papua New Guinea PM touches the feet of PM Modi as he lands in the country for a historic visit India was one of the first countries to send Covid-19 vaccines to the Pacific island nation.#NarendraModi #PapuaNewGuinea #Modi pic.twitter.com/bTaAMGTpP1 — WION (@WIONews) May 21, 2023 × Upon his arrival, the Indian PM also took to Twitter and thanked PM Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming him. "I am thankful to PM James Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming me. This is a very special gesture which I will always remember. I look forward to boosting India’s ties with this great nation during my visit," wrote PM Modi. PM Modi also took a moment to interact with the people from the Indian diaspora who were waiting for his arrival in the island nation. The Indian community in Papua New Guinea came in large numbers and showed remarkable affection. Thankful to them for the memorable welcome. pic.twitter.com/K1BT4RGe7B — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 21, 2023 × "The Indian community in Papua New Guinea came in large numbers and showed remarkable affection. Thankful to them for the memorable welcome," said PM Modi, about the welcome by the Indian community in the island nation. "The visit underscores the close friendship of India with the Pacific Island countries," said the Ministry of External Affairs. The Indian PM is visiting the island nation for the third summit of the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) which he will jointly host with his PNG counterpart on May 22. He will also hold bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and PM Marape. FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries, namely, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. During his visit to the island nation, Indian PM Modi will also hold his first meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, who arrived earlier on Sunday. PM Modi will then leave for Australia where he is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney. However, the Australian leader will be absent from the Pacific summit after United States President Joe Biden cut short his diplomatic tour over US debt crisis talks. Quad summit in Australia was, cancelled as Biden rescheduled his plans and the leaders of the four countries - India, the US, Australia and Japan - met in Hiroshima. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to represent Washington in place of Biden for a parallel summit in Papua New Guinea with Marape and Pacific leaders on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | As Indian PM Modi lands, Papua New Guinea PM touches his feet

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will get an exceptional ceremonial welcome at Papua New Guinea as the country's Prime Minister James Marape himself will personally come to the airport to receive him upon his arrival on Sunday. 
 
Papua New Guinea generally doesn't provide a ceremonial welcome to world leaders who arrive after sunset, however, a special exception will be made for PM Modi. The prime minister will be accorded a full ceremonial welcome, news agency ANI reported.

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It has been a fruitful visit to Japan. Met several world leaders during the G-7 Summit and discussed a variety of issues with them. Gratitude to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/kishida230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kishida230</a>, the Government and people of Japan for their warmth. Leaving for Papua New Guinea in a short while.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1660134405699170305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi was attending the Group of Seven or G7 Summit in Japan's Hiroshima. 
 
After participating in G7 advanced economies' annual summit being held under the Japanese Presidency in Hiroshima, PM Modi will depart for Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea. 
 
This will be the first tour of Modi and also the first-ever visit by an&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister to Papua New Guinea.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-reviews-bilateral-strategic-ties-with-his-british-counterpart-rishi-sunak-594621">PM Modi reviews bilateral strategic ties with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak</a>

During his visit to Papua New Guinea, Modi will host the third Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Co-operation (FIPIC III Summit) along with Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape on May 22. 
 
The FIPIC, which was launched in 2014, involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries (PICs) — Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Samoa, Vanuatu, Niue, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Cook Islands, Palau, Nauru and the Solomon Islands. 
 
India's Ministry of External Affairs, in a press release, stated that Prime Minister Modi will engage in bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea which will include meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and Prime Minister James Marape. 
 
After his visit to Papua New Guinea, PM Modi will travel to Sydney, Australia even though the meeting of Quad Leaders has been cancelled. He will reach Australia on May 23

<h2>G7 Summit</h2>

Speaking at the G7 summit's session in Hiroshima on Saturday, PM Modi called for creating an inclusive food system which will provide relief to the most vulnerable people of the world as part of his 10-point action plan to solve the challenges faced in the areas of food, fertilisers, and healthcare.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelensky at centre of last day of G7 summit

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The 10-point action plan of PM Modi included the depoliticisation of global fertiliser supply chains, encouraging holistic healthcare, strengthening digital healthcare, promoting millets, strengthening digital healthcare, curbing the wastage of food and building development models which have taken inspiration from the needs of developing countries. 
 
India is not among the G7 nations however PM Modi will be participating in the summit after receiving the invitation from Japanese PM Fumio Kishida.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will get an exceptional ceremonial welcome at Papua New Guinea as the country's Prime Minister James Marape himself will personally come to the airport to receive him upon his arrival on Sunday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will get an exceptional ceremonial welcome at Papua New Guinea as the country's Prime Minister James Marape himself will personally come to the airport to receive him upon his arrival on Sunday. Papua New Guinea generally doesn't provide a ceremonial welcome to world leaders who arrive after sunset, however, a special exception will be made for PM Modi. The prime minister will be accorded a full ceremonial welcome, news agency ANI reported. It has been a fruitful visit to Japan. Met several world leaders during the G-7 Summit and discussed a variety of issues with them. Gratitude to PM @kishida230, the Government and people of Japan for their warmth. Leaving for Papua New Guinea in a short while. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 21, 2023 × PM Modi was attending the Group of Seven or G7 Summit in Japan's Hiroshima. After participating in G7 advanced economies' annual summit being held under the Japanese Presidency in Hiroshima, PM Modi will depart for Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea. This will be the first tour of Modi and also the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Papua New Guinea. ALSO READ | PM Modi reviews bilateral strategic ties with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak During his visit to Papua New Guinea, Modi will host the third Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Co-operation (FIPIC III Summit) along with Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape on May 22. The FIPIC, which was launched in 2014, involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries (PICs) — Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Samoa, Vanuatu, Niue, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Cook Islands, Palau, Nauru and the Solomon Islands. India's Ministry of External Affairs, in a press release, stated that Prime Minister Modi will engage in bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea which will include meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and Prime Minister James Marape. After his visit to Papua New Guinea, PM Modi will travel to Sydney, Australia even though the meeting of Quad Leaders has been cancelled. He will reach Australia on May 23 G7 Summit Speaking at the G7 summit's session in Hiroshima on Saturday, PM Modi called for creating an inclusive food system which will provide relief to the most vulnerable people of the world as part of his 10-point action plan to solve the challenges faced in the areas of food, fertilisers, and healthcare. WATCH | Ukraine's Zelensky at centre of last day of G7 summit The 10-point action plan of PM Modi included the depoliticisation of global fertiliser supply chains, encouraging holistic healthcare, strengthening digital healthcare, promoting millets, strengthening digital healthcare, curbing the wastage of food and building development models which have taken inspiration from the needs of developing countries. India is not among the G7 nations however PM Modi will be participating in the summit after receiving the invitation from Japanese PM Fumio Kishida. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Special Exception’ | Papua New Guinea’s PM to receive India’s PM Modi at airport

U.S. President Joe Biden canceled a historic visit to Papua New Guinea, where he was to meet with Pacific Island leaders. Biden’s meeting with the leaders of India, Australia and Japan in Sydney was scrapped as well. Instead, he’ll focus on crucial debt ceiling negotiations in Washington.

WION-VOA Co-Production: US President Biden cancels Australia, Papua New Guinea visit

Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape said on Thursday (May 18) that the country will sign a security pact with the US. The pact will give US troops access to the Pacific nation's ports and airports. The development has come amid Washington's attempts to jostle for influence in this region with China.

China is actively trying to woo island nations in the Pacific with an array of diplomatic and financial incentives in return for strategic support. US President Joe Biden has placed more importance on the region given the situation.

"We are elevating to a specific defence cooperation agreement, something that is falling short of a treaty," he told a press conference.

"We are moving ahead, we are signing with the best military on the face of planet Earth."

<h2>What are the pacts?</h2>

PM Marape said that the two agreements will focus on defence co-operation and maritime surveillance. The pact will be formally signed at the earliest after parliamentary approval.

These agreements can be renewed every 15 years. They will give the US vital manoeuvrability in Papua New Guinea's waters which are near to sea routes to Australia and Japan. US will in return will give access to satellite surveillance.

"It now gives us an opportune time to focus not just on maritime access but satellite access on... illegal activities on the high sea," Marape said.

Watch | China to host first in-person China-Central Asia Summit from 18 to 19 May

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A leaked draft version of the defence cooperation agreement showed American forces would have broad autonomy at some of the country's key entry points, but Marape said any access would have to be approved by his government.&nbsp;

"The ports, the infrastructure... will not in any way stand to be exclusively used by the military," he said.

"They would always be asking our defence to have access to our facilities."

<h2>The visit that almost happened</h2>

Biden was due for a historic first visit to most populous South Pacific nation next week. But he had to cancel the trip because of domestic debt ceiling crisis talks.

The White House said Biden called Marape from Air Force One on Thursday to inform him that Secretary of State Antony Blinken would instead attend the summit with Pacific leaders in Port Moresby on Monday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-western-embassies-in-beijing-over-propaganda-displays-reports-593444">China warns Western embassies in Beijing over ‘propaganda’ displays: Reports</a>

Biden invited Marape and other Pacific leaders to another summit in Washington later this year to carry on "discussions around enhancing US-Pacific cooperation", the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;

Washington is courting Pacific nations more intensely after the Solomon Islands became the unlikely epicentre of a diplomatic tussle between the United States and China last year when it signed a security pact with Beijing.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape said on Thursday (May 18) that the country will sign a security pact with the US. The pact will give US troops access to the Pacific nation's ports and airports.

Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape said on Thursday (May 18) that the country will sign a security pact with the US. The pact will give US troops access to the Pacific nation's ports and airports. The development has come amid Washington's attempts to jostle for influence in this region with China. China is actively trying to woo island nations in the Pacific with an array of diplomatic and financial incentives in return for strategic support. US President Joe Biden has placed more importance on the region given the situation. "We are elevating to a specific defence cooperation agreement, something that is falling short of a treaty," he told a press conference. "We are moving ahead, we are signing with the best military on the face of planet Earth." What are the pacts? PM Marape said that the two agreements will focus on defence co-operation and maritime surveillance. The pact will be formally signed at the earliest after parliamentary approval. These agreements can be renewed every 15 years. They will give the US vital manoeuvrability in Papua New Guinea's waters which are near to sea routes to Australia and Japan. US will in return will give access to satellite surveillance. "It now gives us an opportune time to focus not just on maritime access but satellite access on... illegal activities on the high sea," Marape said. Watch | China to host first in-person China-Central Asia Summit from 18 to 19 May × A leaked draft version of the defence cooperation agreement showed American forces would have broad autonomy at some of the country's key entry points, but Marape said any access would have to be approved by his government. "The ports, the infrastructure... will not in any way stand to be exclusively used by the military," he said. "They would always be asking our defence to have access to our facilities." The visit that almost happened Biden was due for a historic first visit to most populous South Pacific nation next week. But he had to cancel the trip because of domestic debt ceiling crisis talks. The White House said Biden called Marape from Air Force One on Thursday to inform him that Secretary of State Antony Blinken would instead attend the summit with Pacific leaders in Port Moresby on Monday. Also Read | China warns Western embassies in Beijing over ‘propaganda’ displays: Reports Biden invited Marape and other Pacific leaders to another summit in Washington later this year to carry on "discussions around enhancing US-Pacific cooperation", the White House said in a statement. Washington is courting Pacific nations more intensely after the Solomon Islands became the unlikely epicentre of a diplomatic tussle between the United States and China last year when it signed a security pact with Beijing. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Amid US-China competition in Pacific, Papua New Guinea to sign pact with Washington

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Hiroshima, Japan for the Group of Seven (G7) Summit following an invitation by the Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida as Tokyo&nbsp;holds the presidency this year. He will also travel to three countries in the span of four to five days from May 19 to May 24.&nbsp;

The Indian PM is also expected to address sessions at the G7 on subjects like peace, stability and prosperity of a sustainable planet; food, fertiliser and energy security; health; gender equality; climate change and environment and so on.&nbsp;

This year’s summit of the group world’s most advanced economies will be focused on nuclear disarmament; economic resilience and security; regional issues; climate and energy; and food, health, and development.&nbsp;

India’s participation at the G7 summit signals “increasing recognition” that New Delhi should be a part of any serious effort to resolve global challenges including those for peace, security, development and environmental preservation, said Foreign Secretary of India, Vinay Kwatra, in a press conference.&nbsp;

The Indian PM is also expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit including a meeting with his Japanese counterpart. He is also scheduled to unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima.

PM Modi is set to leave for the four-day international visit where he will travel to three countries Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia where he will participate in meetings of three summits G7, Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), and Quad respectively.&nbsp; 
 
Notably, the Indian PM is scheduled to have&nbsp;over 40 engagements with&nbsp;over two&nbsp;dozen world leaders in summits as well as&nbsp;bilateral meetings.

The Indian PM will then travel to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, where he will host the 3rd Summit of FIPIC jointly with Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, on May 22. He will also hold bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and PM&nbsp;Marape.&nbsp;

FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries, namely, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Notably, Modi will be the first Indian PM to visit Papua New Guinea.

Indian PM Modi will also hold his first meeting with the New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins in Papua New Guinea. The Indian PM&nbsp;will then travel to Australia from May 22 to May 24 following an invitation from his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney for the Quad Leaders’ Summit.&nbsp;

PM Modi will also hold a bilateral meeting with PM&nbsp;Albanese on May 24, marking his 5th meeting with the Australian counterpart this year. PM Modi will also interact with Australian CEOs and business leaders, and address the Indian diaspora at a community event in Sydney, said the MEA.&nbsp; 
 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Hiroshima, Japan for the Group of Seven (G7) Summit following an invitation by the Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida as Tokyo holds the presidency this year.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Hiroshima, Japan for the Group of Seven (G7) Summit following an invitation by the Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida as Tokyo holds the presidency this year. He will also travel to three countries in the span of four to five days from May 19 to May 24. The Indian PM is also expected to address sessions at the G7 on subjects like peace, stability and prosperity of a sustainable planet; food, fertiliser and energy security; health; gender equality; climate change and environment and so on. This year’s summit of the group world’s most advanced economies will be focused on nuclear disarmament; economic resilience and security; regional issues; climate and energy; and food, health, and development. India’s participation at the G7 summit signals “increasing recognition” that New Delhi should be a part of any serious effort to resolve global challenges including those for peace, security, development and environmental preservation, said Foreign Secretary of India, Vinay Kwatra, in a press conference. The Indian PM is also expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit including a meeting with his Japanese counterpart. He is also scheduled to unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima. PM Modi is set to leave for the four-day international visit where he will travel to three countries Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia where he will participate in meetings of three summits G7, Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), and Quad respectively. Notably, the Indian PM is scheduled to have over 40 engagements with over two dozen world leaders in summits as well as bilateral meetings. The Indian PM will then travel to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, where he will host the 3rd Summit of FIPIC jointly with Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, on May 22. He will also hold bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and PM Marape. FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries, namely, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Notably, Modi will be the first Indian PM to visit Papua New Guinea. Indian PM Modi will also hold his first meeting with the New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins in Papua New Guinea. The Indian PM will then travel to Australia from May 22 to May 24 following an invitation from his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney for the Quad Leaders’ Summit. PM Modi will also hold a bilateral meeting with PM Albanese on May 24, marking his 5th meeting with the Australian counterpart this year. PM Modi will also interact with Australian CEOs and business leaders, and address the Indian diaspora at a community event in Sydney, said the MEA. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian PM Modi's three nation visit to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia

Papua New Guinea's Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko said on Friday (May 12) that he was resigning from the post amid the controversy over the cost and size of the country's delegation to the coronation of King Charles III in London on May 6.

Papua New Guinea's Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko said on Friday (May 12) that he was resigning from the post amid the controversy over the cost and size of the country's delegation to the coronation of King Charles III in London on May 6. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, local media has been running hot with insults and criticism of the cost of travel of the 30-member delegation, with many saying the money would have been better spent on hospitals. In a statement on Friday, Tkatchenko said, "I have stood aside as the foreign minister after consulting the prime minister. I want to make sure the recent events do not interfere with the official visits and summits we are going to have with all the World Leaders in the coming weeks. I also want to ensure the truth of this matter is cleared and the misinformation and lies are corrected." Prime Minister James Marape would take over the role of foreign minister. The TikTok video which angered Papua residents Justin Tkatchenko stepped down from the foreign minister's post after his daughter Savannah, who accompanied him to the coronation, posted a flashy TikTok video of the trip. The video, which now stands deleted, angered residents of Papua New Guinea where 40% of the people live in poverty. In the video, Savannah filmed her visit to luxury fashion stores in Singapore and her meal in the "stunning" first-class lounge on her way to London. ALSO READ | Prince Harry had a chat with King Charles hours before coronation, claims royal expert Earlier, Tkatchenko lashed out at his critics by calling them "primitive animals" with "nothing better to do." He faced severe backlash for his comments and later apologised. Speaking to Australian broadcaster ABC last Wednesday, he said, "My daughter now is totally devastated. She is traumatised by some of the most ridiculous and useless comments that I've seen." Prime Minister Marape, meanwhile, acknowledged that Tkatchenko stepped down as the foreign minister in the face of "public uproar" over the video and a "poor choice of words." In a statement, Marape said, "I want to commend the minister for putting the interest of the country ahead of his own." The prime minister also said that he wanted to apologise to Tkatchenko's family, especially Savannah for what he called "the traumatic experience over the last couple of days". "No woman deserves to be treated the way Savannah was treated over the last few days," he said. Tkatchenko's resignation came just days before United States President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are due to visit Papua New Guinea. Tkatchenko, who had been closely involved in American negotiations, said that Biden would sign a defence pact with his country. However, following his resignation, Prime Minister Marape said he would take over supervision of preparations for the arrival of Biden, Modi and more than a dozen Pacific island leaders. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Papua New Guinea's foreign minister resigns amid controversy over coronation trip splurging

Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Narendra Modi is set to visit Papua New Guinea on 21-22 May. The visit will focus on the India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit, meeting the Indian diaspora, and signing several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). The visit is expected to strengthen the bilateral relations between India and Papua New Guinea and further enhance cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

Ahead of the visit, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, held a meeting with Indian High Commissioner to PNG, Imbasekar Sundaramurhti, and Chief Liaison Officer Visvas Sapkal on Friday (May 12, 2023), to discuss preparations for the visit. In a statement after the meeting, the PNG PM said that his country is "ready to host Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi from May 21-22".

Modi will receive a red-carpet welcome with a 19-gun salute upon his arrival on May 21.

On May 22, he will meet Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and hold talks with PM James Marape. After that, he will be participating in the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit.&nbsp;He will also meet with members of the Indian community during his visit.

During the visit, India and PNG are expected to sign multiple agreements and exchange proposals aimed at enhancing cooperation in various fields. The Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Micro Small to Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will strengthen economic ties between the two countries. Reciprocal visa-on-arrival arrangements and visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders will ease travel restrictions and promote people-to-people contacts. The cultural exchange programs, MOUs between election commissions and broadcasters, and ICT cooperation agreements will further deepen bilateral relations.

"Cabinet has directed the Department of Foreign Affairs to liaise with relevant sectoral agencies and departments to ensure the above deliverables are ready on time to be announced during my meeting with Prime Minister Modi," PM Marape said.

Interestingly, the visit will coincide with US President Biden's presentation of the country and meeting with leaders of the Pacific. India has been proactive in building ties with countries in the region, and this visit is expected to further enhance India's engagement with the Pacific Island countries.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Papua New Guinea on 21-22 May. The visit will focus on the India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit, meeting the Indian diaspora, and signing several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Papua New Guinea on 21-22 May. The visit will focus on the India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit, meeting the Indian diaspora, and signing several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). The visit is expected to strengthen the bilateral relations between India and Papua New Guinea and further enhance cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Ahead of the visit, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, held a meeting with Indian High Commissioner to PNG, Imbasekar Sundaramurhti, and Chief Liaison Officer Visvas Sapkal on Friday (May 12, 2023), to discuss preparations for the visit. In a statement after the meeting, the PNG PM said that his country is "ready to host Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi from May 21-22". Modi will receive a red-carpet welcome with a 19-gun salute upon his arrival on May 21. On May 22, he will meet Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and hold talks with PM James Marape. After that, he will be participating in the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit. He will also meet with members of the Indian community during his visit. During the visit, India and PNG are expected to sign multiple agreements and exchange proposals aimed at enhancing cooperation in various fields. The Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Micro Small to Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will strengthen economic ties between the two countries. Reciprocal visa-on-arrival arrangements and visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders will ease travel restrictions and promote people-to-people contacts. The cultural exchange programs, MOUs between election commissions and broadcasters, and ICT cooperation agreements will further deepen bilateral relations. "Cabinet has directed the Department of Foreign Affairs to liaise with relevant sectoral agencies and departments to ensure the above deliverables are ready on time to be announced during my meeting with Prime Minister Modi," PM Marape said. Interestingly, the visit will coincide with US President Biden's presentation of the country and meeting with leaders of the Pacific. India has been proactive in building ties with countries in the region, and this visit is expected to further enhance India's engagement with the Pacific Island countries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi to visit Papua New Guinea with focus on Pacific Summit, diaspora, and MoUs

The United States is reportedly close to finalising a major defence deal with Papua New Guinea that will allow its armed forces to access the Pacific country’s ports and airports—a move that is being seen as a counter to China’s growing influence in the Pacific region.

According to Nikkei Asia, the deal will be signed when United States President Joe Biden visits Papua New Guinea after the Group of Seven's May 19-21 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.

Biden will meet Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and other Pacific Island leaders, where they will "discuss ways to deepen cooperation on challenges critical to the region and to the United States such as combating climate change, protecting maritime resources, and advancing resilient and inclusive economic growth," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement this week.

The report, quoting officials familiar with the negotiations, noted that the deal would allow US troops to use certain facilities and areas in Papua New Guinea on the condition that they mutually agree.

The potential locations that are being discussed include Momote Airport, Jacksons International Airport, Nadzab Airport, Lombrum Naval Base, the Seaport of Lae and Port Moresby, according to the report.

<h2>Gravitas: Biden family knee-deep in corruption?</h2>

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US and China have been one-upping each other in a bid to grow influence in the Pacific region.

For US, Papua New Guinea is a key strategic area as it is located at the southern tip of the so-called second island chain, which includes Japan's Ogasawara Islands and the US territory of Guam.

It comes after China signed a major security pact with another Pacific country Solomon Islands in April 2022.

US believes that China may eventually establish a base there or use it as a resupply point and expand its range of activity close to the second island chain.

A state-backed Chinese company has won a contract to develop the international port in the Solomon Islands capital of Honiara.

Apart from the US, Papua New Guinea is also being courted by Beijing. Marape was invited to Beijing later this year, while Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the country in 2018.

For its part, the US last year hosted the first ever US-Pacific Island summit in Washington, DC, an event attended by Marape and other Pacific Island Forum leaders. The Biden administration has also sought to re-up security agreements with an array of Pacific island nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States is reportedly close to finalising a major defence deal with Papua New Guinea that will allow its armed forces to access the Pacific country’s ports and airports—a move that is being seen as a counter to China’s growing influence in the Pacific region.

The United States is reportedly close to finalising a major defence deal with Papua New Guinea that will allow its armed forces to access the Pacific country’s ports and airports—a move that is being seen as a counter to China’s growing influence in the Pacific region. According to Nikkei Asia, the deal will be signed when United States President Joe Biden visits Papua New Guinea after the Group of Seven's May 19-21 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. Biden will meet Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and other Pacific Island leaders, where they will "discuss ways to deepen cooperation on challenges critical to the region and to the United States such as combating climate change, protecting maritime resources, and advancing resilient and inclusive economic growth," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement this week. The report, quoting officials familiar with the negotiations, noted that the deal would allow US troops to use certain facilities and areas in Papua New Guinea on the condition that they mutually agree. The potential locations that are being discussed include Momote Airport, Jacksons International Airport, Nadzab Airport, Lombrum Naval Base, the Seaport of Lae and Port Moresby, according to the report. Gravitas: Biden family knee-deep in corruption? US and China have been one-upping each other in a bid to grow influence in the Pacific region. For US, Papua New Guinea is a key strategic area as it is located at the southern tip of the so-called second island chain, which includes Japan's Ogasawara Islands and the US territory of Guam. It comes after China signed a major security pact with another Pacific country Solomon Islands in April 2022. US believes that China may eventually establish a base there or use it as a resupply point and expand its range of activity close to the second island chain. A state-backed Chinese company has won a contract to develop the international port in the Solomon Islands capital of Honiara. Apart from the US, Papua New Guinea is also being courted by Beijing. Marape was invited to Beijing later this year, while Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the country in 2018. For its part, the US last year hosted the first ever US-Pacific Island summit in Washington, DC, an event attended by Marape and other Pacific Island Forum leaders. The Biden administration has also sought to re-up security agreements with an array of Pacific island nations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US eyes Papua New Guinea's airports, ports in defence pact to be signed during Biden’s trip

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden will meet the Pacific Islands leaders next month in Papua New Guinea for a “historic future-oriented” meeting, the region’s Prime Minister James Marape said in a statement on Sunday.

“This is a historic first and at the same time a ‘going forward’ futuristic meeting of global superpowers, in the biggest country in the Pacific,” Marape said.

Modi and Biden will stop in Papua New Guinea on the way to Australia for the Quad, which also includes Japan and Australia, on May 24.

It will be the first official visit to Papua New Guinea for both the state leaders. While Modi’s two-day visit to the island country will begin on May 21, Biden will land on May 22.

Both will participate at the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation Summit (India Pacific Summit) on May 22.

The Forum brings together 14 Pacific Islands — Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu with India at the head of state/ government level.

For the Biden administration, strengthening ties with Papa New Guinea is major key security policy as the island nation is being courted by China, as Marape seeks to boost foreign investment. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the nation in 2018.

<h2>Indian PM Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ hits a century today</h2>

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Washington’s renewed efforts to counter Beijing's growing influence in the region stems from the decision taken by Solomon Islands last year to sign a security pact with Beijing.

China and Australia have been major aid and infrastructure donors to Papa New Guinea, according to Reuters news agency.

On the other&nbsp;hand, Papua New Guinea is negotiating security pacts with the United States and Australia, and Marape has been invited to visit Beijing this year.

"In the Indo-Pacific conversation, PNG and the Pacific cannot be ignored. With our combined forest and sea areas, we have the world's greatest carbon sink, and the biggest sea and air space on earth," Marape said.

Marape said he had invited the US president when they met in Washington last year, and was "very honoured that he has fulfilled his promise to me to visit our country".

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden will meet the Pacific Islands leaders next month in Papua New Guinea for a “historic future-oriented” meeting, the region’s Prime Minister James Marape said in a statement on Sunday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden will meet the Pacific Islands leaders next month in Papua New Guinea for a “historic future-oriented” meeting, the region’s Prime Minister James Marape said in a statement on Sunday. “This is a historic first and at the same time a ‘going forward’ futuristic meeting of global superpowers, in the biggest country in the Pacific,” Marape said. Modi and Biden will stop in Papua New Guinea on the way to Australia for the Quad, which also includes Japan and Australia, on May 24. It will be the first official visit to Papua New Guinea for both the state leaders. While Modi’s two-day visit to the island country will begin on May 21, Biden will land on May 22. Both will participate at the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation Summit (India Pacific Summit) on May 22. The Forum brings together 14 Pacific Islands — Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu with India at the head of state/ government level. For the Biden administration, strengthening ties with Papa New Guinea is major key security policy as the island nation is being courted by China, as Marape seeks to boost foreign investment. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the nation in 2018. Indian PM Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ hits a century today Washington’s renewed efforts to counter Beijing's growing influence in the region stems from the decision taken by Solomon Islands last year to sign a security pact with Beijing. China and Australia have been major aid and infrastructure donors to Papa New Guinea, according to Reuters news agency. On the other hand, Papua New Guinea is negotiating security pacts with the United States and Australia, and Marape has been invited to visit Beijing this year. "In the Indo-Pacific conversation, PNG and the Pacific cannot be ignored. With our combined forest and sea areas, we have the world's greatest carbon sink, and the biggest sea and air space on earth," Marape said. Marape said he had invited the US president when they met in Washington last year, and was "very honoured that he has fulfilled his promise to me to visit our country". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian PM Modi, US President Biden to meet Pacific Islands leaders in Papua New Guinea

United States President Joe Biden will become the first sitting president of the States to visit Papua New Guinea in at least a century, said Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko on Thursday, while he spoke about the plans for the symbolic but brief trip.&nbsp;

In May, Biden will stop in Port Moresby as per the plans as he travels to attend the G7 summit in Japan and the Quad summit in Australia, said the foreign minister.&nbsp;

"He is coming on the 22nd, in the morning, and will be here for three hours only," said Tkatchenko said, stating that the meeting is likely to focus on security, economy, and climate change. &nbsp;

The trip of the US president symbolises an agreement to the rapidly growing strategic importance of Papua New Guinea, as the US and its allies fight with China for influence across the region of Asia-Pacific.

In 20218, Chinese President Xi Jinping had made a visit to Port Moresby to much fanfare, as flags of China were hoisted across the capital and his motorcade whizzed past the welcoming crowds.

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The world saw Jinping's trip as a major diplomatic coup for Beijing.&nbsp;

The officials of the US and Australia have been concerned about the increasing investment of China in the resource-rich Melanesian nation.

Concerns have also been raised about China attempting to set up a military outpost, which pushed Washington to propose the idea of setting up a joint naval facility on Manus Island.

Numerous US secretaries of state have visited Papua New Guinea in the past, which includes Hillary Clinton as well as the then US vice president Mike Pence, who had stepped in after former president Donald Trump cancelled his attendance at a regional summit.&nbsp;

As per the records of the State Department, which date back to the&nbsp;administration of Theodore Roosevelt&nbsp;in 1901, no sitting president of the United States has visited Papua New Guinea.

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As per reports, the White House officials were planning to schedule a visit to the Pacific islands in Biden's travel itinerary as he travels to Japan and Australia.&nbsp;

Last year, the United States increased its diplomacy and aid to the Pacific region after a security deal was signed by China with the Solomon Islands and failed attempts were made by Beijing to forge a wider trade and security pact with 10 island nations.

Fiji, in a statement on Thursday, said that its ministers for employment, education and women had met with China's foreign minister Qin Gang in Beijing, and the latter had "highlighted the need to formalise the China – Pacific Island Countries relationship".

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United States President Joe Biden will become the first sitting president of the States to visit Papua New Guinea in at least a century, said Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko on Thursday, while he spoke about the plans for the symbolic but brief trip.

United States President Joe Biden will become the first sitting president of the States to visit Papua New Guinea in at least a century, said Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko on Thursday, while he spoke about the plans for the symbolic but brief trip. In May, Biden will stop in Port Moresby as per the plans as he travels to attend the G7 summit in Japan and the Quad summit in Australia, said the foreign minister. "He is coming on the 22nd, in the morning, and will be here for three hours only," said Tkatchenko said, stating that the meeting is likely to focus on security, economy, and climate change. The trip of the US president symbolises an agreement to the rapidly growing strategic importance of Papua New Guinea, as the US and its allies fight with China for influence across the region of Asia-Pacific. In 20218, Chinese President Xi Jinping had made a visit to Port Moresby to much fanfare, as flags of China were hoisted across the capital and his motorcade whizzed past the welcoming crowds. ALSO READ | US President Biden to participate in G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan The world saw Jinping's trip as a major diplomatic coup for Beijing. The officials of the US and Australia have been concerned about the increasing investment of China in the resource-rich Melanesian nation. Concerns have also been raised about China attempting to set up a military outpost, which pushed Washington to propose the idea of setting up a joint naval facility on Manus Island. Numerous US secretaries of state have visited Papua New Guinea in the past, which includes Hillary Clinton as well as the then US vice president Mike Pence, who had stepped in after former president Donald Trump cancelled his attendance at a regional summit. As per the records of the State Department, which date back to the administration of Theodore Roosevelt in 1901, no sitting president of the United States has visited Papua New Guinea. WATCH | US: Joe Biden redefining old age at 80 as he runs again for Presidential elections 2024? As per reports, the White House officials were planning to schedule a visit to the Pacific islands in Biden's travel itinerary as he travels to Japan and Australia. Last year, the United States increased its diplomacy and aid to the Pacific region after a security deal was signed by China with the Solomon Islands and failed attempts were made by Beijing to forge a wider trade and security pact with 10 island nations. Fiji, in a statement on Thursday, said that its ministers for employment, education and women had met with China's foreign minister Qin Gang in Beijing, and the latter had "highlighted the need to formalise the China – Pacific Island Countries relationship". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Joe Biden to become first sitting US president to visit Papua New Guinea in a century

Australian Federal Police (AFP) on Tuesday nabbed five members of a criminal syndicate group for orchestrating a black flight and carrying 52 kilogrammes of illegal methamphetamine worth $15 million into Australia.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) on Tuesday nabbed five members of a criminal syndicate group for orchestrating a black flight and carrying 52 kilogrammes of illegal methamphetamine worth $15 million into Australia. The five men had flown a twin-engine Beechcraft light aircraft back and forth from Papua New Guines (PNG) to Australia before being apprehended. The AFP officers were already in position when the 'black flight' that could not be detected by radar landed at a remote airstrip in Queensland. Images and videos of the incident released show the officials quickly circling the aircraft and nabbing the perpetrators. "All five men were arrested by specialist AFP and Queensland Police Service members shortly after the plane arrived at the Monto airstrip on Tuesday afternoon (March 21, 2023). Police located and seized five duffle bags concealed in the plane, containing about 52 kg methamphetamine," read the police report. The police released a statement adding that pilots Bernard Hamilton-Alexander, 51 and his co-pilot, John Horvath, 52 took off from Wilton, a rural area south of Sydney on Monday. They took a pitstop at Monto to refuel before landing in the town of Bulolo in Papua New Guinea. ALSO READ: Australia to legalise use of MDMA and magic mushrooms for treating depression There they picked five duffle bags filled with 52 kg of methamphetamine before returning to Monto where the officers were waiting. Four of the five men arrested, all from the state of New South Wales have already been produced before the magistrates' court. The final perpetrator is expected to be produced before the court on Thursday (March 23). The police added that the men charged were Transnational Serious Organised Crime (TSOC) members who routinely handled the import of methamphetamine to rural Queensland from PNG. "If you look at the size of this attempted importation that was essentially stopped, you're talking about 520,000 individual hits or deals. These men have not only allegedly imported a dangerous drug into Australia, but flying at low altitude without proper instructions poses a huge safety risk for other aircraft," said Detective Chief Superintendent Jason Weinstein ALSO READ | Cocaine worth $300 million with batman stickers found floating in New Zealand (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Black flight' smugglers caught with 52 kg methamphetamine on remote Australian airstrip

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May. The power-packed visit will start with the G7 summit in Japan's Hiroshima.

Indian PM Modi to travel Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May month

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May. The power-packed visit will start with the G7 summit in Japan's Hiroshima, where PM Modi will represent India from May 20 to 21.&nbsp;

The formal invitation for the summit will be extended by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida when he visits Delhi later this month. India has been consecutively invited or considered for an invite to the G7 summit since 2019, and this will be Indian PM Modi's fifth such invitation.&nbsp;

French President Macron extended the invitation in 2019 for the Biarritz summit. In 2020, former United States president Donald Trump was keen to invite India, but the summit could not happen due to the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

In 2021, the then-UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson invited India to the G7 summit, but PM Modi could not travel because of the second wave of the Covid pandemic. Last year, PM Modi was in Germany to attend the summit in Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps.&nbsp;

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After Japan, the prime minister will travel to Papua New Guinea for Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation summit (India Pacific summit) on May 22. The forum brings together 14 Pacific Islands — Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu with India at the head of state/ government level.&nbsp;

The first summit happened in Fiji's Suva in 2014, followed by the second summit in Jaipur in 2015. The summit is seen as wider cooperation between India and the Pacific island where India has been involved in development cooperation.&nbsp;

This is the first-ever visit of PM Modi to the country which is the second largest country in the Oceania region after Australia. India has been assisting the country. The Indian High Commissioner handed over a consignment of 7.2 million doses of anti-retroviral drugs to the government of PNG in November 2016.&nbsp;

Furthermore, in a gesture of solidarity, the Indian government announced in 2018 that it would extend a grant of $1 million to PNG. This grant was specifically meant for earthquake relief in areas that were affected by the earthquake that struck the nation in February 2018.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-meets-nokia-ceo-pekka-lundmark-discuss-indias-digital-infrastructure-571949">Indian PM Modi meets Nokia CEO Pekka Lundmark, discuss India's digital infrastructure</a>&nbsp;

The PM will conclude his three-nation visit in Australia where he will attend the Quad summit from May 23 to 24&nbsp;in Sydney. During the visit of Australian PM Anthony Albanese to India earlier this month, he formally extended the invite to PM Modi to attend the summit.&nbsp;

At the press statements in Delhi, PM Modi said, "I thank Prime Minister Albanese for inviting me to the Quad Leaders' Summit which is going to happen in May this year." PM Modi took part in the Quad Leaders virtual meeting in March 2022, the in-person Quad Leaders' Summit in Tokyo in May 2022 and in Washington in 2021.&nbsp;

The Quad's expansion continued to gain momentum as the four countries announced a series of initiatives aimed at addressing critical challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. With a focus on climate change and disaster resilience, the Quad Climate Change Action and Mitigation Package promised to strengthen efforts towards green shipping, clean energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure. This move signals a collective commitment by the four countries to combat the adverse effects of climate change in the region and beyond.&nbsp;

In addition to climate-related initiatives, the Quad also launched a Common Statement of Principles on Critical Technology Supply Chains, highlighting the importance of building secure and resilient technology infrastructure in the region. These initiatives are expected to have a far-reaching impact on the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp; 
 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May. The power-packed visit will start with the G7 summit in Japan's Hiroshima, where PM Modi will represent India from May 20 to 21.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May. The power-packed visit will start with the G7 summit in Japan's Hiroshima, where PM Modi will represent India from May 20 to 21. The formal invitation for the summit will be extended by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida when he visits Delhi later this month. India has been consecutively invited or considered for an invite to the G7 summit since 2019, and this will be Indian PM Modi's fifth such invitation. French President Macron extended the invitation in 2019 for the Biarritz summit. In 2020, former United States president Donald Trump was keen to invite India, but the summit could not happen due to the coronavirus crisis. In 2021, the then-UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson invited India to the G7 summit, but PM Modi could not travel because of the second wave of the Covid pandemic. Last year, PM Modi was in Germany to attend the summit in Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. ALSO READ | Indian govt may force smartphone makers to remove pre-installed apps: Report After Japan, the prime minister will travel to Papua New Guinea for Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation summit (India Pacific summit) on May 22. The forum brings together 14 Pacific Islands — Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu with India at the head of state/ government level. The first summit happened in Fiji's Suva in 2014, followed by the second summit in Jaipur in 2015. The summit is seen as wider cooperation between India and the Pacific island where India has been involved in development cooperation. This is the first-ever visit of PM Modi to the country which is the second largest country in the Oceania region after Australia. India has been assisting the country. The Indian High Commissioner handed over a consignment of 7.2 million doses of anti-retroviral drugs to the government of PNG in November 2016. Furthermore, in a gesture of solidarity, the Indian government announced in 2018 that it would extend a grant of $1 million to PNG. This grant was specifically meant for earthquake relief in areas that were affected by the earthquake that struck the nation in February 2018. ALSO READ | Indian PM Modi meets Nokia CEO Pekka Lundmark, discuss India's digital infrastructure The PM will conclude his three-nation visit in Australia where he will attend the Quad summit from May 23 to 24 in Sydney. During the visit of Australian PM Anthony Albanese to India earlier this month, he formally extended the invite to PM Modi to attend the summit. At the press statements in Delhi, PM Modi said, "I thank Prime Minister Albanese for inviting me to the Quad Leaders' Summit which is going to happen in May this year." PM Modi took part in the Quad Leaders virtual meeting in March 2022, the in-person Quad Leaders' Summit in Tokyo in May 2022 and in Washington in 2021. The Quad's expansion continued to gain momentum as the four countries announced a series of initiatives aimed at addressing critical challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. With a focus on climate change and disaster resilience, the Quad Climate Change Action and Mitigation Package promised to strengthen efforts towards green shipping, clean energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure. This move signals a collective commitment by the four countries to combat the adverse effects of climate change in the region and beyond. In addition to climate-related initiatives, the Quad also launched a Common Statement of Principles on Critical Technology Supply Chains, highlighting the importance of building secure and resilient technology infrastructure in the region. These initiatives are expected to have a far-reaching impact on the Indo-Pacific. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: PM Modi to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May

An armed group in Papua New Guinea released a hostage while holding an Australian professor and two local researchers captive in the remote highlands of the archipelago. Reports said that the remaining three captives are expected to be in 'reasonable health'.

"The release of one female Papua New Guinean captive is a positive outcome, and negotiations continue for the safe release of the remaining two female Papua New Guineans and one male,"&nbsp;the commissioner of police, David Manning, said in an official statement.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

According to reports in the Australian media, a university professor under the presence of local researchers, was conducting studies near Mount Bosavi. The professor was also accompanied by some Papua New Guinea graduates.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-professor-taken-hostage-in-papua-new-guineas-highlands-says-pm-marape-563820">Australian professor taken hostage in Papua New Guinea's highlands, says PM Marape</a>

The hostages were moved&nbsp;between villages in the area, an assistant police commissioner for Western End, John Kale, told the ABC. Kale expressed the&nbsp;concerns that the hostages could be moved again through villages and thick forest.

<h2>What now?</h2>

According to reports, negotiations are currently&nbsp;ongoing to achieve a "peaceful resolution".

Missionaries have been working with police on the ground and have spoken to the professor via satellite phone, according to reports.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Papua New Guinea appoints Minister for Coffee

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"We are continuing to work to strengthen lines of communication, which remains a challenging aspect of this operation," the commissioner of police was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

"The circulation of fake news can complicate security operations leading to tragic outcomes, and I call on people using social media and administrators to not post information that has not been verified by official sources," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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An armed group in Papua New Guinea released a hostage while holding an Australian professor and two local researchers captive in the remote highlands of the archipelago.

An armed group in Papua New Guinea released a hostage while holding an Australian professor and two local researchers captive in the remote highlands of the archipelago. Reports said that the remaining three captives are expected to be in 'reasonable health'. "The release of one female Papua New Guinean captive is a positive outcome, and negotiations continue for the safe release of the remaining two female Papua New Guineans and one male," the commissioner of police, David Manning, said in an official statement. What happened? According to reports in the Australian media, a university professor under the presence of local researchers, was conducting studies near Mount Bosavi. The professor was also accompanied by some Papua New Guinea graduates. ALSO READ | Australian professor taken hostage in Papua New Guinea's highlands, says PM Marape The hostages were moved between villages in the area, an assistant police commissioner for Western End, John Kale, told the ABC. Kale expressed the concerns that the hostages could be moved again through villages and thick forest. What now? According to reports, negotiations are currently ongoing to achieve a "peaceful resolution". Missionaries have been working with police on the ground and have spoken to the professor via satellite phone, according to reports. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Papua New Guinea appoints Minister for Coffee × "We are continuing to work to strengthen lines of communication, which remains a challenging aspect of this operation," the commissioner of police was quoted as saying by The Guardian. "The circulation of fake news can complicate security operations leading to tragic outcomes, and I call on people using social media and administrators to not post information that has not been verified by official sources," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Papua New Guinea: Armed group releases local hostage, Australian professor still held captive

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape on Monday confirmed that some people have taken an Australian university professor as a hostage in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.&nbsp;

The Australian professor is an archaeologist who was working at an Australian university and had gone on a field trip along with many Papua New Guinean students from a local university who were also kept hostage, according to Reuters.

According to reports, the professor was conducting studies around Mount Bosavi along with guides and University of Papua New Guinea's graduates.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papua-new-guineas-airlines-grounded-due-to-fuel-shortage-549850">Papua New Guinea's airlines grounded due to fuel shortage</a>

While speaking to local reporters on Monday, Papua New Guinea's PM Marape said that the military and police have been kept on a stand-by, and the government has been working in co-ordination with the missionaries, who were playing the role of mediators.

"We want those criminals to release those who are held in captivity," Marape said, in the comments which were broadcasted on ABC Television. "There is no place to run, there is no place to hide," he added.

“I want to inform the families of those taken hostage we’ve been at work. Contact has been made with people in the bush through secondary sources. They have indicated ransom. We do not encourage ransom, but we’re treating this very diligently and carefully because life is at risk and life is at stake," the prime minister added.

Reassuring the families of the hostages, the prime minister said, "I'm confident, I'm optimistic, I'm prayerful that we get… them out."

WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Australia's indigenous culture at risk

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PM Marape did not disclose the location where the group was taken and said that they have kept the situation "under close wraps because of the sensitivity". The prime minister said that the PNG authorities have confirmed the group of students and the professor are alive.

According to a source in Papua New Guinea, the situation of the hostage was in "a crucial moment" on Monday morning and they cannot give any comment as of now.&nbsp;

No response was received by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade over the whole incident.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape on Monday confirmed that some people have taken an Australian university professor as a hostage in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape on Monday confirmed that some people have taken an Australian university professor as a hostage in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. The Australian professor is an archaeologist who was working at an Australian university and had gone on a field trip along with many Papua New Guinean students from a local university who were also kept hostage, according to Reuters. According to reports, the professor was conducting studies around Mount Bosavi along with guides and University of Papua New Guinea's graduates. ALSO READ | Papua New Guinea's airlines grounded due to fuel shortage While speaking to local reporters on Monday, Papua New Guinea's PM Marape said that the military and police have been kept on a stand-by, and the government has been working in co-ordination with the missionaries, who were playing the role of mediators. "We want those criminals to release those who are held in captivity," Marape said, in the comments which were broadcasted on ABC Television. "There is no place to run, there is no place to hide," he added. “I want to inform the families of those taken hostage we’ve been at work. Contact has been made with people in the bush through secondary sources. They have indicated ransom. We do not encourage ransom, but we’re treating this very diligently and carefully because life is at risk and life is at stake," the prime minister added. Reassuring the families of the hostages, the prime minister said, "I'm confident, I'm optimistic, I'm prayerful that we get… them out." WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Australia's indigenous culture at risk PM Marape did not disclose the location where the group was taken and said that they have kept the situation "under close wraps because of the sensitivity". The prime minister said that the PNG authorities have confirmed the group of students and the professor are alive. According to a source in Papua New Guinea, the situation of the hostage was in "a crucial moment" on Monday morning and they cannot give any comment as of now. No response was received by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade over the whole incident. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australian professor taken hostage in Papua New Guinea's highlands, says PM Marape

Why do both Australia and China want to boost ties with the pacific nation of Papua New Guinea? Why are U.S and Japan expanding their security alliance? Molly Gambhir tells you what's brewing.

Gravitas: New U.S-Japan plan to counter China

Airline passengers numbering in thousands were stranded across Papua New Guinea as commercial airlines grounded planes after the supply of jet fuel was stopped on the island nation.&nbsp;Puma Energy, Papua New Guinea's only fuel supplier, said the shortage in supply was due to a lack of foreign currency from the Central Bank of Papua New Guinea.

The foreign currency, among other things, is also used to buy fuel from international markets.

A report in The Guardian claimed that there was chaos at the country’s main domestic airport in Port Moresby. All major airlines cancelled their scheduled domestic flights earlier on Thursday.

Hundreds of passengers were turned away from Jacksons International Airport in the capital city. This prompted passengers to demand intervention from Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea’s largest airline, Air Niugini, released a statement on Wednesday, saying that all flights around the country would be cancelled because Puma Energy had suspended the supply of Jet A1 fuel to all airline companies.

“We have done everything possible to ensure that this situation did not occur and that we could continue to support the people of Papua New Guinea especially as they return from their Christmas holiday,” said Air Niugini. “The airline can assure all our customers that we are completely up to date with our payments to Puma Energy.”

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-papua-new-guinea-appoints-minister-for-coffee-510205">Gravitas: Papua New Guinea appoints Minister for Coffee</a>

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Air Niugini warned that international flights could also be cancelled if the country’s central bank failed to supply enough US dollars for the fuel supplier, Puma Energy, to buy jet fuel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-global-recession-fears-china-debt-default-looms-520949">As it happened: Oil rebounds 3% as OPEC+ weighs biggest output cut since 2020</a>

Papua New Guinea’s difficult terrain and lack of interconnecting roads make air travel the most efficient means of travel. The two largest cities, Port Moresby and Lae, are only accessible&nbsp;by plane.

Papua New Guinea has only two major highways linking its interior highlands to the coast and three other highways linking smaller towns. There are no railroads and though there are shipping lines to transport cargo, there are no options for people to travel far on the sea.&nbsp;

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Airline passengers numbering in thousands were stranded across Papua New Guinea as commercial airlines grounded planes after the supply of jet fuel was stopped on the island nation.

Airline passengers numbering in thousands were stranded across Papua New Guinea as commercial airlines grounded planes after the supply of jet fuel was stopped on the island nation. Puma Energy, Papua New Guinea's only fuel supplier, said the shortage in supply was due to a lack of foreign currency from the Central Bank of Papua New Guinea. The foreign currency, among other things, is also used to buy fuel from international markets. A report in The Guardian claimed that there was chaos at the country’s main domestic airport in Port Moresby. All major airlines cancelled their scheduled domestic flights earlier on Thursday. Hundreds of passengers were turned away from Jacksons International Airport in the capital city. This prompted passengers to demand intervention from Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea. Papua New Guinea’s largest airline, Air Niugini, released a statement on Wednesday, saying that all flights around the country would be cancelled because Puma Energy had suspended the supply of Jet A1 fuel to all airline companies. “We have done everything possible to ensure that this situation did not occur and that we could continue to support the people of Papua New Guinea especially as they return from their Christmas holiday,” said Air Niugini. “The airline can assure all our customers that we are completely up to date with our payments to Puma Energy.” WATCH | Gravitas: Papua New Guinea appoints Minister for Coffee × Air Niugini warned that international flights could also be cancelled if the country’s central bank failed to supply enough US dollars for the fuel supplier, Puma Energy, to buy jet fuel. ALSO READ | As it happened: Oil rebounds 3% as OPEC+ weighs biggest output cut since 2020 Papua New Guinea’s difficult terrain and lack of interconnecting roads make air travel the most efficient means of travel. The two largest cities, Port Moresby and Lae, are only accessible by plane. Papua New Guinea has only two major highways linking its interior highlands to the coast and three other highways linking smaller towns. There are no railroads and though there are shipping lines to transport cargo, there are no options for people to travel far on the sea. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Papua New Guinea's airlines grounded due to fuel shortage

Papua New Guinea has appointed a Minister for Coffee. What does the role entail? 'To focus on coffee, coffee and coffee'. Some countries also have ministers for loneliness, Japan also had a minister for toilets. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Papua New Guinea appoints Minister for Coffee

The world is aware of the public health risks caused by mosquitoes, which are members of a group of almost 3,600 species of small flies within the family Culicidae.

The world is aware of the public health risks caused by mosquitoes, which are members of a group of almost 3,600 species of small flies within the family Culicidae. Recently, a new species of mosquito, Aedes shehzadae, has been discovered 90 years after the first (and only other observation) of it in Papua New Guinea. The Conversation published the report by Cameron Webb, Craig Williams, Larissa Braz Sousa and Marlene Walter. The experts credited the "most remarkable observations uploaded to iNaturalist in recent years" to citizen science. In the report, it has been mentioned that Aedes shehzadae was first captured in Australia by photographer John Lenagan in 2021. For months, he was on the lookout in the Kutini-Payamu National Park (Iron Range) in Queensland’s Cape York. The details around the "unique discovery" have been provided by the researchers in this month's edition of the Journal of Vector Ecology. The report added that the only other specimen of this mosquito was collected almost 90 years ago in Papua New Guinea. The report clearly mentioned that a further probe is required as researchers don't know much about Aedes shehzadae yet. Authors in the report have mentioned that they are not even sure whether it's a new arrival in Australia, or if it had simply not been observed before. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

How a mosquito species from Papua New Guinea, lost for 90 years, found in Australia

Faith has played an important role in the development of cricket in Papua New Guinea and on Sunday it will be repaid when the 'Barramundis'&nbsp;make their Twenty20 World Cup debut against Oman in Al Amerat.

The majority of the team taking the field hail from a single village located on the southern Papuan coast near the capital, Port Moresby.

Hanuabada, which means "big village", has been considered cricket`s spiritual home in the former British protectorate since it was first played there in the early 1900s.

"The game was introduced to the villagers by the missionaries.&nbsp;The people fell in love with the sport and embraced it because of the Christian influence," international umpire Lakani Oala told Reuters.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iconic-shades-of-blue-evolution-of-team-indias-jersey-from-1985-to-2021-420376">Iconic shades of blue: Evolution of Team India's jersey from 1985 to 2021</a>

"Cricket would bring neighbouring villages together by playing amongst each other regularly, which created harmony, peace and forged strong friendship," the 62-year-old eighth-generation Hanuabadan said.

"All cricket matches were opened and ended with prayers (and our) national cricket teams still practise this today."

Growing the game has been a challenge in PNG.

The team play few fixtures, a problem exacerbated by the pandemic, and PNG`s location and reputation as a dangerous travel destination means it is difficult to attract touring sides despite the proximity to Australia and New Zealand.

"Unfortunately where we are, geography is not on our side and we lack international exposure and games," Cricket PNG chairperson Helen Macindoe told Reuters.

"We're hoping with the 'Barras'&nbsp;making it to the World Cup, there`ll be a little bit more exposure."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-makes-big-claim-ahead-of-marquee-face-off-between-india-and-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-420643">Babar Azam makes BIG claim ahead of marquee face-off between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup</a>

While the world stage is PNG's focus for the next few weeks, the long-term aim is to continue growing the game beyond Hanuabada and the neighbouring coastal areas.

"A couple of years ago we managed to get some funding through Cricket Australia, New Zealand Cricket and the ICC (International Cricket Council), and we're building 48 more wickets around the country," Macindoe said.

PNG are grouped with Oman, Scotland and Bangladesh in the opening round and will need to finish in the top two if they are to secure a spot alongside the top-ranked nations in the "Super 12" stage.

The T20 World Cup, running from Oct. 17 to Nov. 14, was shifted to Oman and the United Arab Emirates from original hosts India due to COVID-19 concerns. 
&nbsp;

Faith has played an important role in the development of cricket in Papua New Guinea and on Sunday it will be repaid when the 'Barramundis' make their Twenty20 World Cup debut against Oman in Al Amerat.

Faith has played an important role in the development of cricket in Papua New Guinea and on Sunday it will be repaid when the 'Barramundis' make their Twenty20 World Cup debut against Oman in Al Amerat. The majority of the team taking the field hail from a single village located on the southern Papuan coast near the capital, Port Moresby. Hanuabada, which means "big village", has been considered cricket`s spiritual home in the former British protectorate since it was first played there in the early 1900s. "The game was introduced to the villagers by the missionaries. The people fell in love with the sport and embraced it because of the Christian influence," international umpire Lakani Oala told Reuters. IN PICS | Iconic shades of blue: Evolution of Team India's jersey from 1985 to 2021 "Cricket would bring neighbouring villages together by playing amongst each other regularly, which created harmony, peace and forged strong friendship," the 62-year-old eighth-generation Hanuabadan said. "All cricket matches were opened and ended with prayers (and our) national cricket teams still practise this today." Growing the game has been a challenge in PNG. The team play few fixtures, a problem exacerbated by the pandemic, and PNG`s location and reputation as a dangerous travel destination means it is difficult to attract touring sides despite the proximity to Australia and New Zealand. "Unfortunately where we are, geography is not on our side and we lack international exposure and games," Cricket PNG chairperson Helen Macindoe told Reuters. "We're hoping with the 'Barras' making it to the World Cup, there`ll be a little bit more exposure." ALSO READ | Babar Azam makes BIG claim ahead of marquee face-off between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup While the world stage is PNG's focus for the next few weeks, the long-term aim is to continue growing the game beyond Hanuabada and the neighbouring coastal areas. "A couple of years ago we managed to get some funding through Cricket Australia, New Zealand Cricket and the ICC (International Cricket Council), and we're building 48 more wickets around the country," Macindoe said. PNG are grouped with Oman, Scotland and Bangladesh in the opening round and will need to finish in the top two if they are to secure a spot alongside the top-ranked nations in the "Super 12" stage. The T20 World Cup, running from Oct. 17 to Nov. 14, was shifted to Oman and the United Arab Emirates from original hosts India due to COVID-19 concerns.

T20 World Cup: Papua New Guinea's leap of faith lands World Cup debut

Sharks are like tigers in the deep. The apex predator is a perfect killing machine with an aerodynamic body to swim fast, colours that blend in with surroundings, razor sharp teeth and amazing sense of smell that is literally capable of detecting few milliliters of blood from miles away.

But some people in Papua New Guinea catch them by hand!

And they sing to them before catching them.

Yep! That's the deal!

Singing to sharks, or 'shark calling' is an ancient tradition among fisherfolk villages of Messi, Kono and Kontu in Papua New Guinea which is an island nation north of Australia.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-fossils-of-rare-eagle-species-that-lived-25-million-years-ago-416873">Scientists unearth fossils of rare Eagle species that lived 25 million years ago</a>

The singing involves taking names of their ancestors and showing their respect to the shark before catching it. Then they shake coconut rattle in water to lure sharks from deep and then catch them by hand.

People here believe that sharks carry souls of ancestors. And by showing them respect, a fisherman can catch a shark without himself coming to harm.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-bones-of-two-new-species-of-dinosaurs-417380">Scientists unearth bones of two new species of dinosaurs</a>

The tradition of 'shark calling' is not just a practice but a philosophy for these people. According to elders in these villagers communication between man and sharks is a reflection of how the man has lived his life.

They believe that only the person who does not drink, womanise or steal from others can become a successful shark caller.

Sharks are like tigers in the deep. The apex predator is a perfect killing machine with an aerodynamic body to swim fast, colours that blend in with surroundings, razor sharp teeth and amazing sense of smell that is literally capable of detecting few milliliters of blood from miles away.

Sharks are like tigers in the deep. The apex predator is a perfect killing machine with an aerodynamic body to swim fast, colours that blend in with surroundings, razor sharp teeth and amazing sense of smell that is literally capable of detecting few milliliters of blood from miles away. But some people in Papua New Guinea catch them by hand! And they sing to them before catching them. Yep! That's the deal! Singing to sharks, or 'shark calling' is an ancient tradition among fisherfolk villages of Messi, Kono and Kontu in Papua New Guinea which is an island nation north of Australia. Also Read | Scientists unearth fossils of rare Eagle species that lived 25 million years ago The singing involves taking names of their ancestors and showing their respect to the shark before catching it. Then they shake coconut rattle in water to lure sharks from deep and then catch them by hand. People here believe that sharks carry souls of ancestors. And by showing them respect, a fisherman can catch a shark without himself coming to harm. Also Read | Scientists unearth bones of two new species of dinosaurs The tradition of 'shark calling' is not just a practice but a philosophy for these people. According to elders in these villagers communication between man and sharks is a reflection of how the man has lived his life. They believe that only the person who does not drink, womanise or steal from others can become a successful shark caller.

People in this country 'sing' to sharks and then catch them by hand

The Australian government has rejected Chinese allegations that it was meddling in the rollout of domestically-made Covid-19 vaccines in Papua New Guinea.

Australia's Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja said Papua New Guinea's decision&nbsp;over its choice of jab had already been&nbsp;accepted.

Relations between Canberra and Beijing have deteriorated sharply in recent years, with disputes over everything from telecoms giant Huawei to the origins of the coronavirus.

The latest spat was sparked by Chinese state media, with the Global Times tabloid accusing "Australian consultants" planted in Papua New Guinea of "obstructing" the emergency use authorisation of Chinese vaccines.

China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had on Monday expressed concern over what he called "irresponsible behaviour" in Papua New Guinea.

He urged Australia to "stop disrupting and undermining vaccine cooperation between China and Pacific island countries".

Papua New Guinea has started rolling out 200,000 doses of China's Sinopharm vaccine that arrived in the country last month.

An article published in 'The Global Times' on July 2 accused Australia of "threatening" senior Papua New Guinean officials with the loss of investment in road projects if they went to the airport to welcome the arrival of the jabs.&nbsp;

"With Australia working in the shadows, Papua New Guinea's epidemic prevention centre did not approve the emergency use of Chinese vaccines until the end of May, when Australia-provided vaccines had already arrived in the country," it said.

Seselja said Australia was providing "comprehensive support" to its neighbour Papua New Guinea, which included the delivery so far of 28,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

While Papua New Guinea was also getting doses "from other sources", including the Covax programme, Seselja said Australia was ready to provide enough shots to inoculate its "entire adult population".

Papua New Guinea began a nationwide vaccine rollout in May as it sought to contain an outbreak that has taken the country's caseload to more than 17,000 infections, including 177 deaths. &nbsp;

Vaccine misinformation is widespread and there is concern about the safety of the AstraZeneca product after a small number of widely reported health scares overseas.

Australia has pledged to share 15 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines with Pacific nations by mid-2022.

"Obviously our first priority is to make sure Australians have access to doses, but given we have got that capacity, given we've got other sources of vaccines in Australia, there will be that capacity to continue to up our effort when it comes to sharing vaccines in the region," Seselja said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Australian government has rejected Chinese allegations that it was meddling in the rollout of domestically-made Covid-19 vaccines in Papua New Guinea. Australia's Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja said Papua New Guinea's decision over its choice of jab had already been accepted.

The Australian government has rejected Chinese allegations that it was meddling in the rollout of domestically-made Covid-19 vaccines in Papua New Guinea. Australia's Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja said Papua New Guinea's decision over its choice of jab had already been accepted. Relations between Canberra and Beijing have deteriorated sharply in recent years, with disputes over everything from telecoms giant Huawei to the origins of the coronavirus. The latest spat was sparked by Chinese state media, with the Global Times tabloid accusing "Australian consultants" planted in Papua New Guinea of "obstructing" the emergency use authorisation of Chinese vaccines. China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had on Monday expressed concern over what he called "irresponsible behaviour" in Papua New Guinea. He urged Australia to "stop disrupting and undermining vaccine cooperation between China and Pacific island countries". Papua New Guinea has started rolling out 200,000 doses of China's Sinopharm vaccine that arrived in the country last month. An article published in 'The Global Times' on July 2 accused Australia of "threatening" senior Papua New Guinean officials with the loss of investment in road projects if they went to the airport to welcome the arrival of the jabs. "With Australia working in the shadows, Papua New Guinea's epidemic prevention centre did not approve the emergency use of Chinese vaccines until the end of May, when Australia-provided vaccines had already arrived in the country," it said. Seselja said Australia was providing "comprehensive support" to its neighbour Papua New Guinea, which included the delivery so far of 28,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. While Papua New Guinea was also getting doses "from other sources", including the Covax programme, Seselja said Australia was ready to provide enough shots to inoculate its "entire adult population". Papua New Guinea began a nationwide vaccine rollout in May as it sought to contain an outbreak that has taken the country's caseload to more than 17,000 infections, including 177 deaths. Vaccine misinformation is widespread and there is concern about the safety of the AstraZeneca product after a small number of widely reported health scares overseas. Australia has pledged to share 15 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines with Pacific nations by mid-2022. "Obviously our first priority is to make sure Australians have access to doses, but given we have got that capacity, given we've got other sources of vaccines in Australia, there will be that capacity to continue to up our effort when it comes to sharing vaccines in the region," Seselja said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia rejects accusation of meddling in rollout of Chinese jab in Papua New Guinea

Australia will be seeking approval to divert 1 million of countries contracted COVID-19 vaccine doses to neighbouring Papua New Guinea.

Your Story: Australia seeks to divert COVID-19 vaccine shots to Papua New Guinea

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