Country plans to shift away from traditional partners

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PRIME Minister James Marape says the country plans to shift away from traditional partners and woo nations such as Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore “in a bigger way”.
He said PNG was free to engage with other nations.
“We engage with the Chinese Government as long as it’s fair and friendly to us on our terms, just like any other engagement,” he said.
“Whether it be China, New Zealand, Australia, Philippines, Indonesia, I intend to maximise foreign relations in the economy especially trade and commerce, not only politics.
“I intend to look at Indonesia and Philippines in a bigger way. I intend to look at Malaysia and Singapore in bigger way. I will shift away from traditional partners. For us it’s about commerce and the economy.”
Meanwhile, Ijivitari MP Richard Masere has resigned from the People’s National Congress Party to join the Our Development Party.
“It’s important to build on the relationship that we have started,” Masere said.
Alotau MP Charles Abel who has also joined the Our Development Party said Masere “is most welcomed to join me and Sir Puka (Temu)”.
“The Our Development Party stands for fairness and equal distribution.” Party leader Sir Temu said he would hand over the leadership to Abel.
Those who have joined the party include Abel, Masere and Milne Bay Governor Sir John Luke Crittin.