PNG stands ready to assist in Qld floods victims

 PAPAU New Guinea has extended its sympathies to the people of Australia, particularly in Queensland, where flooding triggered by torrential rains have caused havoc to people’s livelihoods.

Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Don Polye conveyed this on behalf of the people of PNG.

Polye said the heavy rains and flooding in parts of Queensland was also being felt in PNG, considering the geographical proximity of that part of Australia to PNG and the substantial flow of trade and movement of people between Queensland and PNG.

He expressed heartfelt sympathies to the people affected by the devastation in cities and towns in Queensland.

“The government and people of PNG stand united in prayer with the people of Queensland in these times of natural disaster,” he said.

Polye said if there was anything humanly possible to assist, then PNG was ready to help.

“As is well known, PNG is prone to natural disasters of varying dimensions and, Australia, being a close and friendly neighbour, has always been the first to come to our aid. As such, PNG would like to return such gesture if possible. I will be briefing and advising the government as to how best PNG can assist,” Polye said.