New US ambassador welcomed

By URSULA-JANE BOGG
UPNG journalism student
NEW United States ambassador Walter North yesterday presented his credentials to Governor-General Sir Michael Ogio at Government House in Konedobu, Port Moresby.
North was confirmed as envoy to PNG, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu on Sept 22.
He highlighted the close, historic bonds between the people of PNG and the US and underscored the US commitment to collaborating with the country to achieve sustainable, inclusive and transparent growth for all citizens.
North is the thirteenth US ambassador to the country.
On his arrival at Government House, North was welcomed by a guard of honour by the Royal PNG Constabulary and the PNG Defence Force.
North, assured of the continued bilateral partnership, said he planned to “work closely with all the countries he was accredited to build on our existing cooperative efforts and to explore new critical areas of partnership”.
Sir Michael said PNG’s union with the US dated back to World War II and “we continue to enjoy excellent bilateral relations”.