President discusses trilateral trade with PNG, NZ

The Dollar Business Bureau

India’s President Pranab Mukherjee discussed trade areas with Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, where India could cooperate to boost trilateral trade and investments.

President said that the visit to the two countries reflects the significance that India puts on strengthening its ties with the Asia-Pacific region which is an extension of its immediate neighbourhood.

Pranab Mukherjee was on a five-day visit to Papua New Guinea and New Zealand from April 28 to May 2, 2016. Several senior officials from India also joined the President for the meeting.

“India’s is willing to contribute in the capacity building initiatives in Papua New Guinea in health, agriculture, IT and infrastructure development, President said.

President said that India would be pleased to share its expertise and capabilities with Papua New Guinea as in spite of significant arable land and lot of fresh water, the country is still a net food importer.

Mukherjee mentioned in a meeting that, the Indian Government would provide drugs and equipment for treatment of 20,000 HIV patients in Papua New Guinea for a period of one year. 

During the meeting, Papua New Guinea’s leadership welcomed Indian investment in the sectors of petroleum and natural gas.

President offered assistance to Papua New Guinea for surveillance radars in coastal areas and patrol craft. Besides, India offered support for training the nation’s maritime coast guards that had been discussed during FIPIC-2 Summit. 

During his visit, Mukherjee met various leaders of Papua New Guinea, comprising Sir Michael Ogio, Governor General Grand Chief; Peter O’Neill, Prime Minister and his Cabinet colleagues; Don Polye, Leader of the Opposition and Sasindran Muthuvel, Governor of West New Britain province.

The Government of Papua New Guinea declared ‘Visa on Arrival’ for Indians travelling to Papua New Guinea, in order to boost tourism and business links between the two countries. 

Furthermore, Mukherjee also met Governor General Jerry Mateparae and Prime Minister John Key. They discussed the New Zealand's support for India's candidature for permanent membership of the expanded UN Security Council. He also signed Air Services Agreement and MoU on an ICCR Chair of Indian Studies in the University of Victoria.