Dadae hails East Sepik

GOVENOR-GENERAL Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae has hailed East Sepik for hosting the Queen’s baton relay on a two-day tour of the province over the weekend.
“To our host province, East Sepik, and Governor Allan Bird, you have embodied and ignited the values of hope, solidarity and collaboration as we witnessed the baton ceremoniously travel to distinct parts of the mighty Sepik,” he said on Monday.
“Your conviction and colour represents the very best parts of the home of the founding father of this nation, the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
“Despite the difficult circumstances facing us locally and globally with the Coronavirus pandemic, the visit of the baton has brought back a renewed sense of possibility.
“The Commonwealth Games are a festival of sports and culture.
“The Queen’s baton journey to Papua New Guinea and beyond would not have been possible without the hard work of the organising committees around the Commonwealth.
“You are reminding us of the significance of sports and our very own unique and diverse culture, so we thank you.”
Sir Bob praised president Sir John Dawanincura and his Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee for their ongoing commitment to the Commonwealth.
“The Queen’s baton relay signifies a connected, human Commonwealth,” he said. “This year, our nation will face some of the very best athletes in the Commonwealth in July.
“The dedication of our Team PNG athletes is an inspiration to our future generations despite this challenging period in time.
“To all Team Papua New Guinea athletes, please accept my best wishes in your preparations, travels and participation in Birmingham.”
Meanwhile, the baton relay continues in the Solomon Islands.