Secure region depends on trade: UK

National, Normal
Source:

The National, Tuesday February 25th, 2014

 A STABLE and secure Asia-Pacific will only be achieved if countries in the region are able to change, innovate and stay competitive through strengthening free trade, British High Commissioner Jacqueline Barson said yesterday.

Speaking at the opening of the AML Anti-Corruption Enforcement and Prosecution Forum, she described the UK’s engagement in the Asia Pacific as more about security than trade and prosperity. 

The UK has taken strong interest in supporting PNG’s government in its effort to curb corruption and abuse of public funds, complementing Prime Minister Peter O’Neill’s platform on this issue.

Barson congratulated the country on becoming a candidate country to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).  

“This is a notable achievement and a huge step for PNG to become EITI compliant, and complements the government’s determination for more transparency and accountability within the public sector,” she said.

The three-day capacity-building initiative will concentrate on addressing and combating financial crimes. 

The programme is a joint initiative of the UK High Commission in PNG, UK consultancy firm the International Governance and Risk Institute, PNG Attorney-General’s Office and the Task Force Sweep team.