The new Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China presented his Letter of Credence to Governor-General Bob Dadae on Tuesday in Port Moresby.
Ambassador Xue Bing replaces Ambassador Li Ruiyou.
Papua New Guinea and the People’s Republic of China formalised diplomatic relations 41 years ago, on 12 October 1976.
Governor-General Dadae said: “The bilateral ties between our two countries remain friendly and are steadily increasing.”
He assured Ambassador Xi of the PNG Government support during his tenure.
“I wish to assure you that the Government of Papua New Guinea stands ready to render all support and assistance that you may require in effectively and efficiently discharging your responsibility as Ambassador,” the GG said.
“I am confident that the excellent relations existing between our two countries will be further enhanced during your term as Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Papua New Guinea.”
The Chinese Government and companies have had a huge impact on PNG economy from grants to business investments.
According to Lower Institute for International Policy, China’s foreign aid program in the Pacific islands region is growing.
“But there are misperceptions about its size, its reach, its focus, and its purpose,” said the Institute.
“This in part stems from the lack of information about Chinese aid activities.
“The Chinese government does not release detailed information about its aid program, either at a country or project level. Pacific island governments, too, are not always transparent.