Trump congratulates PNG

UNITED States President Donald Trump says his country hopes to advance security cooperation and deepen commercial ties with Papua New Guinea.
In his message to Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae as the country celebrated its 43rd independence anniversary, Trump said the US and PNG’s relationship was “founded on our shared goals of democratic governance, inclusive economic growth, and a free and open Indo-Pacific”.
“We commend Papua New Guinea for hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) forum and look forward to a successful leaders’ week in November.
“We are also eager to further our engagement on women’s participation in the political and economic sectors, advancing security cooperation, and deepening commercial ties.” Trump recently cancelled his visit to Port Moresby to join other world leaders for Apec and would be represented by Vice-President Mike Pence.
French President Emmanuel Macron also sent a message saying France shared a “common vision of the challenges in Oceania with Papua New Guinea, particularly on the issue of combating the effects of climate change”.
“As I recalled during the high-level dialogue on climate change and biodiversity organised by the Pacific Community in Noumea on May 4, France will continue to actively engage with island states to help them address the challenges of climate change.
“Beyond climate issues, bilateral relations between our two countries have intensified in recent years.
“I particularly welcome the development of the liquefied gas plant project exploiting the natural gas fields of Elk and Antelope by the Total Group, whose potential is particularly promising.
“France, as you know, attaches great importance to the promotion of multilateralism.
“In this regard, I wish you every success in organising the Apec Summit to be held this year in Papua New Guinea in November.”