PNG has free trade deals in mind

By MARK HAIHUIE
PAPUA New Guinea will follow other Melanesia Spearhead Group (MSG) countries and sign a free trade agreement as soon as it resolves some “domestic trade-related issues”, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill says.
He took over as chairman of the MSG from his Solomon Islands counterpart Rick Houenipwela at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium. The meeting is being held this week at The Stanley Hotel and Suites in Port Moresby.
“The MSG has already made great inroads into sub-regional trade,” he said.
“The signing of the free trade agreement by some of our member countries is a milestone achievement.
“Papua New Guinea will be signing as soon as we resolve some of our domestic trade-related issues.”
He called for the strengthening of trade links between all MSG countries.
“We must work together to expand economic sectors that will continue to drive development in our region in fisheries, agriculture, banking and finance, tourism and hospitality – to name a few,” he said.
“We must strengthen and consolidate our efforts in connecting our countries through telecommunications, and efficient air and shipping services.”
O’Neill also stressed the need to take on institutional reforms put forward by the MSG Secretariat for the benefit of future generations.
“Our Melanesian society is unique with common cultures, tradition and values that give us our unique identity,” he said.
“We must make MSG what we want it to be for our future generations.”