PM happy with gas deal: Kua

NEGOTIATIONS between the State and developer of P’nyang gas project in Western, ExxonMobil PNG Ltd, can now start.
This was confirmed by Petroleum and Energy Minister Kerenga Kua, pictured, on Friday,
He said Prime Minister James Marape was satisfied and that negotiations between the two parties would begin.
“I am pleased to see the project being progressed and I commend the State negotiating team for developing the plan (terms and conditions) they presented to the P’nyang ministerial committee,” Kua said.
“The committee that consists of relevant economic ministers have deliberated on these terms and conditions and then endorsed it to the prime minister for his approval.
“With this phase now complete, Prime Minister Marape has directed me to instruct the State negotiating team led by the Chief Secretary to Government Isaac Lupari to engage with ExxonMobil in negotiating an agreed terms and conditions of a possible P’nyang gas agreement.
“The outcome of these negotiations will then be presented to the national executive council for its endorsement before it is signed by all interested parties.
“I am confident of an outcome that will be favourable for all stakeholders.
“All things going well we can expect to sign a P’nyang gas agreement around the end of this month.”