MPs meet in NZ
The National, Friday 19th April 2013
EIGHT MPs from PNG are among more than 60 leaders who are in Wellington, New Zealand, for the Pacific parliamentary and political leaders’ forum.
The forum is organised by the NZ parliament to give Pacific politicians and leaders and NZ MPs an opportunity to strengthen their networks and discuss common Pacific issues.
“This forum will focus on promoting regional cooperation, stronger governance and helping leaders across the region to get to know one another,” NZ MP and former high commissioner to PNG John Hayes said.
“The breadth of this forum is what gives it such strength.
“Invited speakers will address regional concerns such as energy, health issues, resources, job creation, interaction between the public and private sectors, environmental issues, the importance of a free press and strong transparent governance.”
“The programme is structured around discussion groups and debates in NZ’s parliament between visiting and NZ MPs and starts with a three-hour debate on Pacific issues,” Hayes said.
New Zealand High Commissioner to PNG Marion Crawshaw said: “We are thrilled to have such strong representation from Papua New Guinea at the forum.
“Their participation will strengthen the connection between PNG’s parliament, New Zealand and other parliaments across the Pacific.”
Crawshaw said people could follow the forum, which runs from April 18 to 22, on Twitter@PACLeadersForum.