China-PNG trade grows – The National

By MALUM NALU
BILATERAL trade between China and Papua New Guinea reached US$2.7 billion (K8.4bn) in 2015, a massive growth from 2015, Chinese Ambassador Ruiyou Li says.
He said this last night at the celebration of 40 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries, launching of the PNG International Convention Centre and celebration of China’s National Day.
“In 40 years, particularly in recent years, China and PNG have enjoyed fast progress in bilateral trade,” Li told a large crowd at the new centre in Waigani.
“The volume reached US$2.7 billion in 2015, a growth by 12.4 times, compared to the year 2000, in which the trade volume was US$225 million.
“The Chinese government has also attached great importance to the economic and technical cooperation with PNG.
“In the last 40 years, it has provided grant aid for a number of projects, including government scholarships for over 300 PNG students to undertake degree studies in China.
“So I’m very happy to point out that during the 40 years of diplomatic relations, our bilateral economic cooperation has delivered real benefits to our two nations, and facilitated PNG’s economic development.
“After reflecting on the development of the friendly and mutually-beneficial relationship, I shall say it is worth having this grand celebration and sharing the fruits of our 40 years’ commitment and dedication.”
Li said the convention centre – built by China Jiangxi International – was China’s biggest grant aid project in the Pacific.
“I’m very proud that the Chinese government has made a right decision to build an international convention centre for PNG, as PNG is in real need of such facility in its growing engagement in world and regional affairs,” he said.
“A friend in need is a friend indeed.
“It is a token of friendship from the Chinese people, so on behalf of the Chinese Government, I hereby deliver it to the PNG Government and people.
“I hope the international convention centre, by hosting numerous conventions and conferences, will play a valuable role in PNG’s international affairs.”