Govt, Australia commit to improving telecommunication

AUSTRALIA is working with the PNG Government to improve access to high quality, reliable and effective telecommunications services.
Australian High Commissioner Bruce Davis said Australia was delighted to partner with Papua New Guinea in delivering key nation building projects, such as the Coral Sea Cable.
“This work has the potential to be truly transformative and I am excited to be able to see the impact our investments are having across the Papua New Guinea,” he said.
Earlier this year, a survey of 100 chief executive officers in PNG identified unreliable telecommunications as the top impediment to business.
A statement said: “Australia is committed to working with Papua New Guinea to improve telecommunications reliability and connectivity.
“This includes supporting the new high speed Coral Sea Cable, which will connect Port Moresby and Sydney.
“Due to be completed in December 2019, the cable will be laid from next month, starting in Port Moresby and heading south through the Coral Sea.
“The Coral Sea Cable will significantly improve Papua New Guinea’s internet connectivity, allowing businesses to access new markets, students to harness new learning opportunities and communities to connect with each other.
“It is a very tangible symbol of Australia and Papua New Guinea’s enduring partnership as well as both nations’ strong commitment to growth and prosperity in the region.
“The investment in the cable follows delivery of the new O3b earth station at Gerehu in November 2018, which provides high speed internet connectivity for the Port Moresby region.
Australia continues to partner with Kumul Telikom Holdings, Nicta and Department of Communications and Information to support new infrastructure projects as well as to promote improved institutional and regulatory settings in the telecommunications sector.