Government delegation visits PNG-Indon border

THE government sent a high-level delegation last week on a fact-finding mission to the PNG-Indonesian border areas in Western.
The mission was led by Ian Jinga, the director general of the office of security coordination and assessment with the Department of Prime Minister.
As chairman of the National Security Advisory Committee secretariat, Jinga was accompanied by the acting Foreign Affairs secretary Lucy Bogari, Defence Force operations commander Col Walter Enuma, Defence joint forces commander Col Gilbert Toropo and Deputy Police Commissioner Simon Kauba.
Jinga said the government was taking new approach in dealing with the border issues.
“We will get the government’s presence to Weam, Daru and Vanimo,” he said.
Jinga outlined the government’s immediate action plan to:
l Deploy military troops as soon as funds are  available;
l Declared land for physical planning, to develop growth centres; and
l Rehabilitate the houses of the government officers.
Bogari said the government was taking a proactive approach to the border issues for the first time.
“This is in the context of border areas. PNG has to mingle with its partners,” she said.
Bogari added the government would establish basic service delivery to the people.
“This trip has shown us, in the border areas, the people have been neglected for so long,” she said.
Bogari said the government resources should be used correctly to help the border villagers.
“We need boost our human resources, develop market areas, and make our environment conducive,” she said.