O’Neill sends best wishes to Vanuatu

National, Normal
Source:

The National, Wednesday July 31st, 2013

 PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill has congratulated the government and people of Vanuatu on their national day yesterday.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I convey our warm and sincere congratulations to the Government and people of the Republic of Vanuatu as they celebrate their national day on July 30,” O’Neill said.

“Papua New Guinea and the Republic of Vanuatu enjoy an excellent relationship through close cooperation across the political, economic, and cultural spectrum.”

O’Neill said active interactions at the regional and international forums such as the Melanesian Spearhead Group, Pacific Islands Forum, African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP), Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations underlined the strength of this relationship.

“Since its independence on July 30, 1980, Vanuatu has developed into a strong and vibrant democracy in the region,” he said.

“PNG and Vanuatu have enjoyed a strong relationship by working together in areas of mutual concern such as security, climate change, economic and social development.”

“There is still scope for both governments to achieve more in exploring opportunities in tourism, fisheries, trade and investment.

“By working together, we will not only secure a safe and prosperous Pacific region, but also improve the living standards of our people.

“With a stable political climate, Papua New Guinea’s economy has been growing over the past 11 years.

“We are ready to share this experience and prosperity with Vanuatu,” and other countries of the region.”