Polye farewells Aust envoy

PNG Opposition Leader Don Pomb Polye has commended the out-going Australian High Commissioner to PNG Deborah Stokes for providing vibrant leadership in the bilateral relationship between both countries.

"With the kind of leadership she has provided during her tenure in PNG, representing her government and its people, is an inspiration for many to emulate," he said.

Mr Polye has also conveyed his welcome to Stoke’s successor Bruce Davis, saying he is looking forward to working with him.

He thanked the people of Australia and their government for their continuous commitment in funding socio-economic projects in the country and committed himself to working closely with Mr Davis.

"Australia has never discharged its umbilical cord from us, even if we are into adulthood as a sovereign nation," he said.

Mr Polye is also the Opposition’s spokesman for foreign affairs. And as a parliamentarian from Enga Province, he also thanked the Australian Government for providing financial aid in the province’s health and education sectors.