Why cars bought

THE Government has reiterated that cars acquired for use during Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) meetings next month are similar to the ones other host nations had acquired for the regional event.
Apec Minister Justin Tkatchenko, in response to public comments on the Government’s purchase of vehicles to be used during the event by visiting national leaders, said in a statement yesterday “the record must be set straight”.
“Firstly, the use of a certain level of vehicle is required for global events such as an Apec Leaders’ Summit,” he said.|
“Secondly, as with past Apec hosts, these vehicles will be purchased by the private sector at cost.
“Thirdly, the price the Maserati will be sold to the private sector is less than the sale price of a Toyota Land Cruiser VX. The price of the Bentley (car brand) will be more than the Toyota.”
He said the Maserati would be used by heads of governments, while the Bentley will be used by heads of state.
He pointed out that it had been the practice during past major international meetings held in PNG for the Government to sell acquired vehicles to the private sector.
He mentioned the two African, Caribbean and Pacific Leaders’ summits, and the Pacific Islands Leaders’ summits.
“The selection of the Maserati and Bentley motor vehicles was approved by National Executive Council for use by the Apec leaders and to be sold to the private sector,” he said.
“A number of expressions of interest have been made and this process will be advanced independently through the Central Supply and Tenders Board for final sale.”
He said the Maserati would be sold for around K590,000 and the Bentley for around K850,000.
He said the selection of vehicles approved by the National Executive Council had included vehicles used by previous Apec hosts, including Audis and BMWs, Mercedes Benz and the wide-wheelbase Range Rover.
“The Range Rover had been identified, and when it became unavailable, the next most cost-effective option presented for the volume required for the main vehicle was the Maserati,” he said.
He said to host Apec in Papua New Guinea was a proud achievement for the country.