On Friday, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar thanked Australian Minister of Foreign Affairs Senator Penny Wong for working together to deliver aid to Enga Province in Papua New Guinea, which was hit by a devastating landslide. Jaishankar highlighted that the partnership between India and Australia is making a positive impact in the Indo-Pacific region.
Senator Penny Wong also shared her thoughts on the cooperation. She mentioned that Australia is collaborating with various partners to ensure that essential aid reaches the affected areas in Papua New Guinea. Wong added that they visited the disaster zone and helped transport a package of supplies from India to the victims in Enga Province.
Last week, a shipment of humanitarian aid worth USD 1 million, sent by India, arrived in Papua New Guinea. The relief materials were officially received at the Port Moresby airport by several high-ranking PNG officials, including Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko and Defence Minister Billy Joseph.
Indian High Commissioner Inbasekar S handed over the supplies, and Minister Tkatchenko expressed his gratitude towards India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar for their timely support.
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On May 28, India announced this immediate relief assistance in response to the massive landslide that struck Enga Province, causing significant destruction and loss of life. The landslide buried hundreds of people and resulted in over 670 deaths, as reported by CNN, citing estimates from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
India has a history of supporting Papua New Guinea during natural disasters, including the aftermath of an earthquake in 2018 and volcanic eruptions in 2019 and 2023. This recent assistance underscores the strong bond and solidarity between the two nations during times of crisis.
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