Chinese gifts Independent Boulevard to PNG for Apec

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A gift to be called Independence Boulevard Precinct and valued at K40 million from the Chinese government under its aid programme is consistent with the status of Port Moresby as the capital of PNG, National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop says.
Parkop spoke at the launching of the project funded by the Chinese government to help PNG with the hosting of the Apec summit in November.
The precinct starts from Waigani, crosses to Parliament, features a six-lane road, two footpaths 5m wide, street lights on both sides, path lights, three traffic lights, five natural parks beside the road and a new parade access to Parliament House.
Parkop said the project was expected to be completed towards the end of October.
“This project is of no economic cost to the national government, but it is a project that is consistent with the statues of Port Moresby as the capital of PNG,” Parkop said.
Parkop said in some places around the world, especially around Parliament or State house, they were done up top-notch to showcase the capital city and the potential of the nation.
“I’ve seen it everywhere in the world and I am very pleased that we now come up with this thing here with support from the Chinese government,” Parkop said.
“It will be another milestone, setting a benchmark for PNG and reinforcing Port Moresby as the capital city after the Apec because this facility will be here to stay and will be used for many other purposes.”
He said that the Chinese government had invested well over K200 million to rehabilitate and build new roads in Port Moresby in preparation for the Apec summit and commended them for their support.
Lands and Physical Planning Minister Justin Tkatchenko said the 300m corridor on both sides of the road would be made available for NCDC to build recreation parks and public amenities for city residents to use.
Lands and Physical Planning Minister Justin Tkatchenko said all land under the Independence Boulevard precinct was being handed to the National Capital District Commission to develop for the benefit of the public.
Parkop commended Tkatchenko and the Lands Department for their support.