Prime Minister Peter O’Neill

“The Government of Papua New Guinea extends its condolences on behalf of our people to the Government and people of Russia following this tragic incident,” the Prime Minister said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the men, women and children who were killed.

“The death of people in an air crash is a matter for which there must be answers and we can anticipate a full investigation.”

“I stand to support the call by the two former prime ministers, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and Sir Mekere Morauta, for O’Neill to disclose the terms of the USB deal to the nation and people of PNG.”

 Polye added that the picture is now on the wall as to why he was sacked as the treasury minister in 2014.

He said this after the MSG group granted Indonesia application to be an Associate member and gave the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Observer Status.

“As a Melanesian Group, it is important that we hear what our communities are demanding,” O’Neill told leaders at the closing of the MSG meeting.

He says the decision to include Indonesia and ULMWP is one that is very historic.

“As everyone else in the region, we want the same things. We want peace, we want security and we want better standards of living for our families.” Says O’Neill