PM O'Neill officially welcomes FIFA World Cup teams

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter O'Neill officially welcomed teams from the 15 countries to Port Moresby for the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup, which kicks off on Sunday, November 13.

The tournament will take place over a period of three weeks at four venues in Moresby.

O'Neill joined NCD Governor Powes Parkop last night, during the host city's reception, in extending a very warm welcome to Oceania and PNG Football Association president David Chung and all the other FIFA officials who are in Moresby over the next few days.

"PNG is a very unique country and you will find that our people are very warm and they will continue to support each of the teams over the next few days."

O'Neill said it's a proud moment in PNG's history to host such an event.

He thanked Chung, who has been in the forefront of trying to get this event to take place in PNG.

"There's been many challenges along the way but we are here today,” says the PM.

"I know that our teams will play football in a good spirit of good sportsmanship and I extend best wishes to all the teams who have come from very faraway places.

"Moresby is in the middle of the Pacific but I know that you will enjoy your stay here.

"We will make sure that your stay is comfortable and we look forward to seeing you over the few days when the matches take place.

"Crowds are going to be there to support each of you and please feel free to engage with our people.

"They're warm people and they will continue to look after your wellbeing while you're here," O'Neill said.

He thanked all the FIFA officials of the 15 teams, all the coaches and staff who made this very possible and most of all, thanked the people and residents of Moresby city for the support so far.

Author: 
Quintina Naime