Dual citizenship will help stimulate growth, Pato says

By HELEN TARAWA
DUAL citizenship is an instrument which will promote growth and prosperity in the country, according to Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration Rimbink Pato.
He yesterday launched the PNG Citizenship and Dual Citizenship Pathways.
“Dual citizenship is straight forward and 70 per cent of the world provide dual citizenship,” he said.
“We are a member of the United Nations and we are a regional leader and because of the support we give to the rest of the small Pacific Island countries such as Fiji, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands, we want to give them this opportunity to network better so they can feel that we are truly a part of them.”
People from eight countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa, United Kingdom, Germany and United States of America, can now apply for dual citizenship.
Fiji High Commissioner First Secretary Ro Vilitati Mataitini said Fiji was privileged to be considered one of the eight countries.
“Our citizens have been married here for a long time and have extended family, going back as long as 43 years,” he said.
“We have about 90 mostly women residing in PNG.  This will address the issue for their children and grandchildren as well.
“It also benefits our business community for those big investors.
“It helps in citizens and immigration issues through the airports.”