Austria hopes to strengthen PNG ties

AUSTRIAN ambassador Dr Bernard Zimburg says his country is eager to strengthen bilateral relations with Papua New Guinea.
Presenting his letter of credence to Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae in Port Moresby yesterday, Zimberg said Austria and PNG had been closely cooperating on a range of projects since the 1960s.
“These projects have included initiatives to further education and schooling, as well as the development of self-management,” he said.
“In particular, vocational training in rural areas by the Austrian Development Cooperation.
“Further, Austria is engaged with Papua New Guinea in energy with companies like Andritz, which maintains hydro power stations. Other recent projects include the health sector. The Austrian company Vamed is currently building in cooperation with the Papua New Guinea Department of Health the new diagnostic centre at the Goroka General Hospital in Eastern Highlands province. The same company will soon start the construction of a modern General Hospital in Wewak in East Sepik.”
Sir Bob assured Zimburg that the PNG government was ready to accord the necessary support and assistance he may require.