China’s relations in economy and trade in the Pacific region and Papua New Guinea is to help the local economy’s development and social progress through aid with no strategic political gain.
These were the remarks of Chinese Ambassador to PNG, Xue Bing, when handing over vehicles that will be used during the APEC meet.
The international Convention Center, Independence Boulevard, Poreporena Freeway upgrade, UOG, K300m ANGAU hospital upgrade, Kokopo sewerage projects and many others are projects funded either by grants or concessional funding by China.
PNG is the biggest recipient of Chinese Aid in the Pacific region and has consistently held a one-China policy over the years which will continue, says Minister for National Planning, Richard Maru.
Recently that partnership has come under scrutiny, directed at China’s influence and aid assistance.
“Of course recently there have been many reports in some Western media attacking China’s relations,” Ambassador Xue said.
“Our cooperation’s transparent, our cooperation’s benefiting local people in real term so we continue to do so, and I believe our PNG friends would also like to continue our good cooperative, friendly relationship even after the APEC, looking beyond APEC,” he added.
While the APEC Minister Justin Tkatchenko said PNG will not forgo its relationship with other countries, PNG sovereignty will not be questioned.
“People must understand, China will play a major part in this region, now and into the future. We will never forgo our traditional relationship with countries like Australia and New Zealand, they are a part of the pacific and we will always work with them and as a developmental partner of Papua New Guinea,” he said.
“China has come in to assist, and we will work with them but our sovereignty will never, ever be questioned, never,” Tkatchenko added.