US envoy visits Lae, Goroka

 By CARMELLA GWARE

UNITED States ambassador Walter North will meet leaders in Lae and Goroka to discuss empowering of women in the country.

Also on the agenda is how to combat gender-based violence, according to an embassy official.

North will meet political and civil society leaders from April 9 to 18 to discuss how the US government can ensure that PNG’s economic growth is inclusive, sustainable and transparent.

“The ambassador plans to emphasise US commitment to issues in the country as well as policy priorities and engagement in PNG, including the mission’s support for women’s empowerment,” the official said.

“During his visit to the highlands region he will meet with American missionaries, non-governmental organisations and businesses who are working collaboratively with local communities to improve the quality of life there.”

North will meet young people at Lae Secondary School on April 10 and at the University of Goroka on April 12.