Marape assures envoy of support

PRIME Minister James Marape has assured new Australian High Commissioner Jonathan Philp of the Government’s support during his tenure.
“Australia continues to be PNG’s closest and oldest bilateral partner and we acknowledge the robust relations we share,” Marape said.
“As you are aware, PNG is currently in a national state of emergency for the next two months, and we look forward to bringing home our citizens studying and living in Australia and other countries as well.”
Philp takes over from Bruce Davies who had returned home before the “lockdown”.
Philp opted to arrive in Port Moresby earlier than planned to lead Australia’s work to support PNG prepare for and respond to a Covid-19 outbreak.
Philp is a senior career officer with the department of foreign affairs and trade.
He has served as ambassador to Afghanistan and Turkey.