Chinese official pledges support for institute

A CHINESE counsellor was shocked to find the Institute of PNG Studies (IPNGS) operating in an almost rundown facility in Port Moresby.
“I am very surprised to see the institution conducting valuable work in such conditions,” Chinese Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Liu Linlin said.
He said he would return for a second visit to obtain specific information and establish the needs of the institution.
“No promises, but I am keen to provide support where (possible and) necessary,” he added.
IPNGS is one of the three agencies under the National Cultural Commission (NCC) that focuses on collection, documentation, archiving, publication and promotion of music, dance and ethnology of PNG.
It ensures that information on the huge diversity of PNG cultures and traditions are available now and in the future.
Institute of PNG Studies Acting Director Dr Don Niles thanked Liu and his delegation for their visit and assured that he would provide the information sought by the visitors.
NCC acting executive director Steven Kilanda, who arranged the visit, said he wanted to show development partners the state of the institute and hopefully secure support and assistance.
Kilanda will be visiting Eastern Highlands to inspect the state of affairs of two other NCC agencies – The National Film Institute and the National Performing Arts Troupe.