Papua New Guinea has welcomed global efforts to regulate arms trade that will minimize global conflicts, and displacement of people.
Representing Prime Minister Peter O’Neill at the 71st United Nations General Assembly, Minister for Public Service Sir Puka Temu said PNG is concerned that despite all efforts, the international community, is unable to contain the ongoing wars based on economic, religious, ethnic, and other causes, including acts of terrorism.
“My government is hopeful that the high-level meetings over this past year will help address many of the root causes of conflict.
“Many of today's ongoing conflicts are fuelled also by the proliferation of firearms, especially small arms and light weapons,” Sir Puka told the assembly.
He said for PNG, the key to realizing the enhancement of human rights and freedom whilst ensuring sustainable development goals also hinges on fostering the right enabling environment, including rule of law, good governance, capacity building, economic growth, multi-stakeholder partnerships, and national ownership and leadership.
“Papua New Guinea joins the international community in calling on all adversaries in conflict situations around the world to lay down their arms and resort to peaceful means of settlement of conflicts.”