Seven Pacific islands Journalist here for the 46th Pacific Island Forum are relieved the PNG government has intervened in the immigration blunder hich resulted in the confiscation of their passports.
This morning Foreign Minister, Rimbink Pato issued a letter for the return of the seven passports.
Veteran Journalist and Manager of the Pacific Island New Association Makareta Komai say it is a welcome sign to see the foreign minister intervene.
“We are hoping good sense will prevail and they will return our passports so we can leave when the forum ends,” she told LOOP News.
Samoan Journalist Asenati Semu says after two long days of travelling their detention was really frustrating.
“But I am thankful for the government’s intervention,” she said.
Viola Ulaka, Manager of News and Current Affairs at Tonga Broadcasting Commission is relieved but anxious.
More Pacific reporters arrived today but this time PNG immigration officials were briefed and all were allowed through.
Meantime some leaders from Small Island States have begun arriving in Port Moresby for the Pacific Forum meeting on Monday.