Envoy admires PNG’s diversity during visit

AUSTRALIAN High Commissioner Jon Philp says his recent trip to the Highlands highlighted the diversity of Papua New Guinea.
“I look forward to seeing even more of it,” he said.
He travelled to Western Highlands, Enga and Jiwaka.
This early provincial engagement highlights the importance Australia places on engaging with Papua New Guineans across PNG.
Philp was able to see firsthand how provincial health authorities were benefiting from Australian funding to assist with PNG’s Covid-19 response and observe the measures put in place to prevent the spread of African swine fever in the Highlands.
The Australian government, through the Pacific horticultural agricultural and market access plus (Phama+) programme, is providing technical and risk communications support toward the African swine fever outbreak response in the Highlands and supporting preparedness and prevention efforts for the rest of the country.
In Western Highlands, Philp met Governor Paias Wingti.
He also had the opportunity to discuss with impressive PNG-Australia Alumni Association members the changes they have brought to their communities after participating in education programmes supported by Australia.
Philp spent time with Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas, visiting the soon to be open K10 million upgrade on the Enga Teachers College, funded by the PNG-Australia partnership.
In Jiwaka, Governor Dr William Tongamp took Philp around, including a tour of the Kudjip hospital which Australia has supported through three incentive funds.