Referendum features in PNG-Japan discussions

A range of topics discussed by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Prime Minister Peter O’Neill during the Apec Leaders’ Summit included funding for the Bougainville referendum.
Abe’s spokesman, Takeshi Obuga, said yesterday that the two leaders discussed a wide range of issues and assistance to PNG like economic cooperation in education and infrastructure.
He said other development assistance included funding and technical assistance for the Bougainville referendum, support for donated fire engines and military assistance.
Other issues included cooperation for security, LNG exploration and developments in PNG, Japanese fishing boats and the recovery and repatriation of the remains of Japanese soldiers who died during World War Two in PNG.
The two leaders also discussed issues in the region including North Korea.
Obuga said Japan, Australia, the United States, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea had entered into an agreement to assist PNG in a countrywide electrification programme.
O’Neill thanked the Japanese government and people for their continued support.
The spokesman said Australia, Japan and the United States were sharing a commitment to maintain and promote a free, open, inclusive, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific region.
He said Japan has always been and will be committed to promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the region.