MINISTER for Foreign Affairs, Trade & Immigration Sam Abal met his Australian counterpart Alexander Downer last Saturday where both leaders agreed to resume the suspended ministerial forum between both countries.
Minister Abal said the annual ministerial forum was the appropriate avenue where ministers and officials from both countries traditionally meet to discuss issues.
“The forum is where we need to focus our time and attention to progress issues of mutual interest. It gives ministers direction and guidance on how to address these important issues,” Mr Abal said.
“The PNG-Australia relationship is far too important for both countries,” Mr Abal said.
He said he was not into discussing issues through the media which can be quite distractive.
“I am more into sitting down with our Australian counterparts and discussing issues in a civilised manner and on a more equal footing,” he said.
Mr Abal said the “excellent cooperation” between PNG and Australia on the illegal immigrants exemplified how both countries could easily work together.
Mr Downer also acknowledged this during their meeting.
Mr Abal commended Australia for the “excellent” arrangement for the Apec meeting and said he looked forward to their next meeting.

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