Namah, Gillard hold talks

 OPPOSITION Leader Belden Namah discussed with Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard last Friday social problems facing the country.

The meeting at the Airways Hotel included opposition MPs and Australian government officials.  

Namah said they discussed issues relating to the many social problems in PNG.  

“I avoided discussing bilateral trade or government to government relations. I instead stayed focussed on the key issue of violence against women, law and order and corruption,” Namah said in a statement. 

“How can we pursue trade, visa and infrastructure development agendas when we can’t even provide for the security of our women and children? 

“What is the importance of relaxing visa restrictions into Australia versus addressing the rape and murder of our women and young girls in our communities?”

Namah thanked Gillard on her initiative to tackle issues in the region focused on empowering women.

He also commended Australia’s A$50 million commitment to assist with building the capacity of our police force. 

“It’s time we as a nation acknowledge Australia’s efforts and assistance in our country’s development.  

“For too long our leaders have politicised our minor differences rather than acknowledge the many achievements and milestones between both countries,” he said. 

He said Australia and PNG had a long-standing relationship forged through a world war and PNG’s independence.