Port Moresby, Monday 28th April 2025 – The launching of the two major projects at the cost of K36 million for the Port Moresby General Hospital further cements the partnership and relationship between Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. 

Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Justin Tkatchenko MP who witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony of the two projects on Monday April 28th, 2025, acknowledged the Indonesian Government for the grant aid assistance program. 

Minister Tkatchenko said the Indonesian government will fully fund a brand-new Intensive Care Unit (ICU) ward with 20 beds as well as the brand-new mortuary. 

“It is a partnership where first time through the relationship of our Prime Minister Hon. James Marape MP, and former president of the Republic of Indonesia Mr Joko Widodo this grant aid assistance program had been made possible.” 

 “These projects indicate the strength of the relationships between Indonesia and PNG as closest neighbour.” 

“We share a border of 384 kilometres and our people share common cultures and traditions in many different ways.”  

 “We have a lot of challenges ahead of us, but we will all work together as a team to ensure that we get this right.” 

Minister Tkatchenko also acknowledged former Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Ms Retno Marsudi who had also played her part in securing the grant aid funding. 

He thanked the Foreign Affairs Secretary Mr. Elias Wohengu and the team who ensured that proper processes and due diligence were followed for these projects. 

“We look forward to these facilities being built and utilised for the best of our people, Minister Tkatchenko said. 

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