Caretaker Tourism Minister Charles Abel was full of praise of his successor Justin Tkatchenko when handing over the reign today in Port Moresby.
The Member for Moresby South now holds two portfolios; Sports and Events, and Tourism, Culture and Arts Ministries.
“It’s been a privilege for me to take up the acting capacity over the last few months, and been a former tourism minister in the previous term of government I do have a background in tourism,” Abel said.
Abel maintains his Planning Ministry portfolio in the cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill on Monday.
“This ministry is very important as we go forward and develop a new economy for Papua New Guinea, our government, prime minister and cabinet has been emphasising that more emphasis is given to Agriculture and Tourism and it is important we have a very dedicated tourism minister.
“Such a minister as Justin Tkatchenko, brings energy and skill to this sector, he has demonstrated with handling of the Pacific Games.
“I am very proud to hand of the ministry to what I believe is a capable hands,” Abel said.
Meanwhile, Tkatchenko urged all sectors of the tourism industry to work together to promote the country as a tourism destination in the international market.