Put State first, civil workers told

By REBECCA KUKU
PRIME Minister James Marape has called on public servants to always put the interests of the State and the government ahead of their own.
“Each of you have been entrusted to do your duties with commitment and to the best of your knowledge,” Marape said.
“As we continue to develop, we must eradicate corruption, embrace professionalism and increase our enthusiasm to execute our responsibilities.”
Marape added that throughout 2022, the government had continued to embrace economic reforms.
“The process of budget repair is well underway and I can confidently attest that we are on track to achieve a balanced budget by 2027.
“It is Government’s intention to draw on the revenue streams derived from the non-renewable sector and reinvest it in the renewable sector to grow our rural economies where most of us live,” he said.
Marape said the Government had established the Sovereign Wealth Fund as the country moved into 2023. “Our national resource projects will continue to be invested in this fund for our future.
“We have also continued to invest in economic enabling infrastructure. We are building new roads, schools, and hospitals to enable economic activity and market access for our people, especially in the agriculture sector,” Marape said.
He added that the Government was also providing support to micro and small-to-medium enterprises, which had real benefits to PNG’s regional and rural communities.
The Tari-Pori MP encouraged Papua New Guineans to save, including those in the informal sector, through superannuation funds that were now offering products to suit this category of business which continued to generate revenue outside of established businesses.
“On the global front, 2022 has been a year of tragedy and sadness for many. The war in Ukraine continues, with substantial economic and human consequences.
“In addition, we have seen natural calamities and disasters, including the impact of climate change. I also acknowledge the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. We sadly lost our sovereign and beloved Head of State, Queen Elizabeth II.
“We continue to engage key partners in our international relations and as a nation, we remain a friend to all, and enemy to none, but we on all nations to uphold the principles of human rights and the law.
“This Christmas, let us all reflect on our contributions, and how they can be translated into tangible socio-economic development outcomes for our prosperity,” he said.