PM addresses business visa issue

There has been significant misuse of multiple-entry business visas to the country, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill says.
Speaking at a recent business breakfast in Port Moresby, he said: “I have also heard your concerns in regards to the issuing of business visas.
“That is why a moratorium was declared for these visas so that we can review these processes and stronger measures put in place to prevent misuse. Stronger internal processes are now in place to police the abuse of multiple-entry business visas.
“The moratorium will now come to an end and multiple-entry business visas will be issued from our embassies, high commissions and consulates around the world.”
O’Neill said Government would expedite this process because it had listened to the business community.
“We know that having multiple-entry visas eases the process of doing business for you,” he said.
“When you raise concerns, we listen, we consult, and we come to a decision that is in the best interests of the country and of our business community.
“We (Government) are ready to work with business to grow our economy.
“Our economy is on track.
“We have turned the corner after challenging times, and our shared future looks bright.
“We are building on the successes of Apec and attracting more foreign investment into Papua New Guinea, and other investments that we have made in infrastructure and the social sector in our country.
“In an uncertain global economy, capital is looking for certainty and stability – and that is what we have to offer in PNG. We need investment in our country that will continue to create jobs and opportunities for our people, and drive growth.
“Foreign investors have done very well in Papua New Guinea, and our Government is focused on seeing that shared success continues.
“In 2019, our Government and our business community will embrace the opportunities before us as we embrace the boom cycle that is underway.”