From India with care: Papua New Guinea’s capital celebrates arrival of humanitarian aid

Port Moresby: Emphasising that "a friend in need is a friend indeed," Papua New Guinea conveyed its profound appreciation to India upon the arrival of the 19-tonne humanitarian aid vessel from New Delhi at Jackson International Airport on Friday.   

In an attempt to support relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts in Papua New Guinea, which was severely damaged by a major landslide on May 24, India had last month declared that it would provide $1 million in urgent humanitarian aid.

Over 2,000 people lost their lives in the Enga Province landslide, which also resulted in significant damage and fatalities.

The help was received at the airport by Billy Joseph, the Minister of Defence, and Justin Tkatchenko, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and the Indian people, they pledged to ensure that the humanitarian aid from India reaches the people residing in the Maip Mulitaka area that was ravaged by the landslide.

"We thank you so much for your contribution in aid for this disaster. We thank you for supporting our country in times of need and grief. We welcome this contribution from our heart," said Tkatchenko.

Acknowledging that India has always had "very close relations" with the people of Papua New Guinea, the Defence Minister expressed appreciation for India's offer.

India's High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea detailed India's function as a ‘Vishwabandhu,’ underscoring the country's dedication to international solidarity and assistance.

India has always steadfastly stood by Papua New Guinea during difficult and devastating times caused by natural disasters in the past by extending support during the 2018 earthquake and the volcanic eruptions of 2019 and 2023. India is a close friend and partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). IANS