The European Union and the PNG- Europe Business Council Inc. launched on 1st August the 4th EU-PNG Business Trade and Investment Conference that will be held on the 30th of October, 2023 at Apec Haus. They also officially opened the PNG Europe Businesses Council website at the Lamana Hotel.
Present to witness the occasion was the European Union Ambassador Jacques Fradin, PNG-Europe Business Council Present Mr. Michael Sullivan, National Trade Office Chief Trade Officer Richard Yakam, Investment Promotion Authority Managing Director Clarence Hoot, members of the council, and stakeholders who witnessed this significant event progressing to enhancing greater opportunities.
Ambassador Fradin thanked everyone for attending the occasion and expressed its support and funding for the establishment and progress of the PNG Europe Businesses Council which is in line with the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) signed with the PNG government along with the other Pacific Island countries including Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Island, and East Timor.
'We want to widen and deepen our agreement in a fruitful and meaningful way by hosting the 4th Europe PNG Business Trade and Investment Conference in terms of business by connecting with people, providing quality products, and utilizing the market," stated Ambassador Fradin.
In support of Ambassador Fradin's remarks, Mr. Sullivan thanked the European Union for its ongoing support and funding towards the PNG Europe Businesses Council. He eluded that PNG and Europe had a tremendous history over the years with European Explorers entering PNG and creating business opportunities that will continue to be enhanced through the council.
"In light of the great economic boom set to bring business opportunities to PNG with the reopening of Porgera Mine, the upcoming Wapu Golpu Project and the Papua LNG project the 4th Europe PNG Business Trade and Investment Conference will be a great opportunity for the Council and Papua New Guineans to position itself for business development and partnerships", stated Mr. Sullivan.
The Government on the other hand represented by Commissioner Yakam thanked and welcome the European Union, Europe PNG Business Council along with Investment Promotion Authority for collaborating and hosting the upcoming 4th Europe PNG Business Trade and Investment Conference.
He expressed that his office will be partnering with them to achieve a strategic role in its economic development policy working in line with the Economic Partnership Agreement in place with the European Union.
"Despite the setbacks, the government is working on creating a conducive business environment and values Europe as its important investment partner for business development", stated Mr. Yakam.
The Theme of the Europe PNG Business Trade and Investment Conference is "New Business New Opportunities for Europe and the Pacific."
For participants interested in joining the upcoming conference registration will be available on the newly launched PNG Europe Business Council website: www.pngeubc.org.pg
