New US ambassador takes up PNG posting

mlipen Main Stories, National

THE new US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Teddy Bernard Taylor, says he is delighted to take up his new post in Port Moresby at a time when PNG’s economic future looks so promising.
Referring to the PNG LNG project and the mining boom, Mr Taylor said proceeds from liquefied natural gas projects as well as other mineral and mining enterprises should enable PNG to address urgent needs in education, health, infrastructure and many other areas.
“We will be glad to share our experiences with you in accordance with your national plan,” he said when presenting his credentials to Governor-General Sir Paulias Matane at Government House yesterday.
“We are proud that American corporations such as ExxonMobil will be providing jobs, training and revenue to the people of Papua New Guinea,” Mr Taylor, who is also accredited to the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, said.
He said that as a sign of the growing importance of the PNG-US relationship, construction of a new United States Embassy compound in Port Moresby was expected to begin soon.
“We believe it will be an aesthetically pleasing addition to your capital city.
“It will enable us to provide offices for an increased embassy staff, a sign we recognise Papua New Guinea’s enhanced regional, political and economic profile in the South Pacific region.”
Mr Taylor also said the US supported the Government in its effort to fight the scourge of HIV/AIDS. 
“As a member of a segment of the US population adversely impacted by HIV/AIDS, I am very aware of the debilitating impact this disease can have on families and communities,” he said.
“The United States Agency for International Development provides funding for Family Health International-Papua New Guinea.
“Our Centres for Disease Control and Prevention can provide Papua New Guinea important training and consultation programmes.
“We will continue to nurture those relationships to assist you in the fight.
“The United States also continues to strongly support the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, as well as the work of the United Nations and its agencies,” Mr Taylor said.