The long standing relationship between PNG and Australia has been further strengthened with the signing of an MOA in relation to immigration and border security services, between the immigration agencies of the two countries.
The Joint Cooperation Agreement is critical in combating transnational crime, human trafficking and threats from extremist organizations.
The PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority announced the signing, of the Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Immigration, with the Australian Department of Home Affairs at the annual Immigration Forum between PNG and Australia.
Chief Migration Officer, Solomon Kantha said the establishment of the Agreement will provide ICA, with access to further support and assistance– as well as access to the considerable resources of Home Affairs.
The Immigration Forum was an opportunity for the senior officials charged with protecting the borders of PNG and Australia to meet and discuss priorities, strategies and innovations.
The agenda included discussions on new visa products, systems to combat illegal entry of people, joint border patrols in the Torres Strait and a report on the streamlined solutions implemented by ICA to efficiently grant visas for APEC delegates.
Officials of both agencies also committed to further meetings on travel facilitation.
Mr Kantha said increased travel facilitation is a priority for the Government and both agencies are committed to working towards even better outcomes as Home Affairs and ICA share the responsibility of protecting our borders.