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Deep 6.6-Magnitude Quake Jolts Papua New Guinea, Rattles Remote Region

May 20, 2025, 9:47 pm

A strong earthquake measuring 6.6 hit northeast of Angoram, Papua New Guinea, early Wednesday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reports. The quake was at a depth of 53 kilometers (32.93 miles). There were no immediate reports of damage or loss of lives following the earthquake activity.

6.2 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Off Papua New Guinea Coast

April 12, 2025, 12:04 pm

A strong earthquake with 6.2 magnitude on the Richter scale hit off Papua New Guinea’s New Ireland province on Saturday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported.

The quake had a depth of 72 kilometres (44 miles) and was approximately 115 kilometres southeast of Kokopo, a seaside town in the province.

The effect of the quake was experienced in surrounding areas, although no significant damage was incurred. “The earthquake took around a minute but there was no damage to the area,” explained Emonck Abelis, a receptionist at Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort.

Papua New Guinea happens to be seismically active very often because it is situated on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’, a region characterized by high rates of tectonic activity, extending from Southeast Asia through the Pacific Ocean.

Although such quakes are not rare in this region, they can at times trigger hazardous landslides. In this case, however, the tremor happened in a comparatively lightly populated region, reducing the potential for mass destruction.

Papua New Guinea Blocks Facebook, Citing Concerns Over Hate Speech

March 26, 2025, 9:34 am

Papua New Guinea has blocked Facebook, claiming it is a “test” to reduce hate speech, misinformation, and pornography. According to Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr, the government is not restricting free speech but rather protecting citizens from harmful content.

Critics Call It a Human Rights Violation

However, opposition leaders and activists strongly oppose the ban. Neville Choi, president of the media council, warned that the move “borders on political autocracy and an abuse of human rights.” Likewise, opposition MP Allan Bird condemned the decision, stating, “We are now heading into dangerous territory, and everyone is powerless to stop this tyranny.”

Lack of Coordination Sparks Concern

Surprisingly, at least two government agencies responsible for communication and technology said they were unaware of the ban. This contradicts police claims that they coordinated with these agencies. As a result, many critics believe the government acted without proper consultation.

Small Businesses Face Challenges

Furthermore, the ban has disrupted businesses. With over 1.3 million users in Papua New Guinea, Facebook is a crucial platform for small businesses. John Pora, chairman of the Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation, expressed concern, saying, “We have a couple of hundred thousand people in the informal sector, and they’ll be feeling uncertain.”

Government Has Targeted Facebook Before

Notably, this is not the first time Papua New Guinea has restricted Facebook. In 2018, the government banned the platform for a month to investigate fake accounts. Later, in 2023, officials launched an inquiry into “fake news and social media platforms.”

New Laws Expand Online Restrictions

Meanwhile, the recent counter-terrorism laws have raised further concerns. These laws give the government broad powers to monitor and limit online communication. Bird criticized the measures, calling them “draconian” and warning, “Blocking Facebook is just step one.”

Users Find Ways to Bypass the Ban

Despite the government’s efforts, many users are still accessing Facebook through virtual private networks (VPNs). Consequently, the ban has not entirely stopped people from using the platform.

Pope Francis Arrives in Papua New Guinea as Part of 12-Day Southeast Asia and Oceania Tour

September 6, 2024, 8:35 pm

Pope Francis arrived in Papua New Guinea on Friday evening, marking the second stop of his 12-day tour across Southeast Asia and Oceania. The 87-year-old pontiff landed in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, after departing from Indonesia earlier in the day.

The Pope, who disembarked from his Garuda Indonesia flight in a wheelchair, was welcomed by Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and senior Catholic Church leaders. A military band played the Vatican anthem, while local children presented Francis with gifts during the brief welcoming ceremony at the airport.

Pope Francis will stay in Papua New Guinea for three nights, with his first public event scheduled for Saturday morning when he will address political leaders. His itinerary includes a day trip to the northwestern town of Vanimo before departing for East Timor on Monday. The pope is also set to visit Singapore before returning to Rome on September 13.

In Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, Pope Francis made a historic visit to the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta and signed a joint declaration with the national grand imam. The statement urged global leaders to confront religious extremism and take decisive action on climate change, a key theme of Francis’ papacy.

Climate change is expected to remain a central focus during the pope’s visit to Papua New Guinea, where recent natural disasters, including a deadly landslide in March, have been attributed to the effects of a warming planet. Francis has been a strong advocate for environmental protection throughout his 11 years as the leader of the global Catholic Church.

This overseas journey is the pope’s longest yet, covering about 33,000 kilometers (20,500 miles) by the time he returns to Rome. His visit underscores his commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and addressing critical global issues such as climate change.

Pope Francis, At 87 Sets Off on 12-Day, 32,000 km Tour: What Challenges Lie Ahead?

August 30, 2024, 1:30 pm

At 87 years old, Pope Francis is gearing up for what may be his most demanding trip yet as the leader of the Catholic Church. Set to begin next week, this 12-day journey will take him to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore, covering a staggering 43 hours of flight time and 32,000 kilometers. This ambitious itinerary is raising eyebrows, particularly in light of recent health issues that have sparked speculation about his ability to continue fulfilling his role.

Originally planned for 2020 but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this will be Pope Francis’s 45th trip abroad. The Vatican has been buzzing with concern over his health, especially since he had to scale back his participation in this year’s Easter events due to lingering flu symptoms. Additionally, he canceled a planned trip to the United Nations climate talks in Dubai after suffering from bronchitis and underwent hernia surgery in June, which required a 10-day hospital stay.

A Grueling Schedule

Despite these health challenges, Pope Francis remains resolute. His upcoming trip includes 16 speeches and numerous meetings and ceremonies across four countries. A senior Vatican diplomat explained the Pope’s determination, stating, “The pope still believes that we need to push a little further. He feels capable of making this trip this year. Next year, it will be less certain.”

Since 2022, Pope Francis has relied on a wheelchair for knee pain and recurring sciatica. He now uses an elevator to board his plane and remains seated during press conferences on return flights. Although he always travels with his personal doctor and a nurse, no new health precautions have been taken for this trip, according to a Vatican source. “His general condition is good, there were no concerns this summer,” the source added.

Admiration and Concern in the Vatican

Within the Vatican, the Pope’s decision to undertake this journey has sparked a mix of admiration and concern. While many admire his determination, there is also “a certain annoyance at the pope’s relentlessness, which puts his health and security services on edge,” according to a Vatican official.

Andrea Ungar, president of the Italian Society of Gerontology and Geriatrics, praised the Pope’s determination, saying, “This trip demonstrates once again the pope’s strength of spirit and shows how, despite age, things can still be done.” Ungar emphasized that the Pope is a “great example” for older adults to remain active, adding, “The more you stand still, the more you stay still.”

Italian academic Massimo Faggioli, who closely follows the papacy, described the trip as “a show of strength for Pope Francis.”

A Busy Schedule Ahead

Less than two weeks after returning from this extensive journey, Pope Francis is set to embark on another four-day trip to Luxembourg and Belgium, beginning on September 26. October will bring the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, a crucial event that will shape the future path and priorities of the global Catholic Church. Additionally, in December, Pope Francis will kick off the 2025 Jubilee, a year-long pilgrimage event expected to draw around 32 million faithful to Rome.

As Pope Francis prepares for these significant events, his determination to continue his mission despite health concerns serves as a powerful example of resilience and dedication.

India-Australia Dosti Delivers Aid To Papua New Guinea

June 21, 2024, 11:33 am

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently extended heartfelt gratitude to Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong for her collaboration with India in delivering Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to the landslide-stricken Enga Province in Papua New Guinea. This joint effort underscores the robust partnership between India and Australia, particularly in addressing humanitarian crises in the Indo-Pacific region.

Strengthening Bonds in the Indo-Pacific

“So glad we could coordinate, FM @SenatorWong. #IndiaAustraliaDosti delivering HADR assistance in the Indo-Pacific,” he posted on X (formerly known as Twitter). This collaboration highlights the synergy between the two nations in responding swiftly and effectively to natural disasters in neighboring regions.

So glad we could coordinate FM @SenatorWong. #IndiaAustraliaDosti delivering HADR assistance in the Indo-Pacific. ?? ?? https://t.co/7hmIbIEN5I

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 21, 2024

Coordinated Relief Efforts

Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong also acknowledged the collaboration, noting Australia’s commitment to working with international partners to provide essential aid. She mentioned that Australia had facilitated the transport of Indian relief supplies to the affected areas in Papua New Guinea, further strengthening the collaborative response to the disaster.

“Australia is coordinating with partners to ensure the delivery of much-needed assistance to our Papua New Guinean family. We were pleased to transport a package of Indian supplies to the landslide-affected Enga Province as we visited the disaster zone,” Minister Wong shared on X.

Australia is coordinating with partners to ensure the delivery of much needed assistance to our Papua New Guinean family.

We were pleased to transport a package of Indian supplies to the landslide affected-Enga Province as we visited the disaster zone. pic.twitter.com/HS4D6KTLMm

— Senator Penny Wong (@SenatorWong) June 20, 2024

Timely Humanitarian Assistance

The substantial humanitarian aid from India, valued at USD 1 million, reached Papua New Guinea last Friday. The relief consignment was warmly received by PNG Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko, Defence Minister Billy Joseph, and other dignitaries at Port Moresby airport. The Indian High Commissioner in Papua New Guinea, Inbasekar S., handed over the supplies, which were set to be dispatched to Wabag shortly.

Foreign Minister Tkatchenko expressed profound gratitude to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Minister Jaishankar, and the people of India for their timely support. “US$ 1 million HADR relief assistance for victims of landslides in Enga province, from India, reached Port Moresby airport; received by H.E. Justin Tkatchenko, PNG Foreign Minister, Dr. Billy Joseph, Defence Minister, Secy, PNG Dept of Foreign Affairs Mr. Wohengu & Enga Provincial Admr Tsaka. High Commr Inbasekar S handed over material to @TkatchenkoMP who felicitated @DrSJaishankar India for timely help. Relief will be dispatched to Wabag shortly. Vishvabandhu in action!” the Indian Embassy in Papua New Guinea posted on X.

A History of Solidarity

India’s swift response to this disaster is part of a longstanding tradition of support to Papua New Guinea during times of need. Over the years, India has consistently provided aid following natural calamities, including the 2018 earthquake and the volcanic eruptions in 2019 and 2023. This enduring support highlights India’s commitment to international solidarity and humanitarian assistance.

The recent landslide in Enga Province was catastrophic, with estimates from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) indicating that over 670 lives were lost. The tragedy has underscored the importance of timely and effective humanitarian aid, and the joint efforts of India and Australia have made a significant impact in alleviating the suffering of the affected communities.Tthe collaboration between India and Australia in delivering aid to Papua New Guinea exemplifies the strength of their partnership and their shared commitment to humanitarian values. This cooperation not only reinforces their bilateral relations but also contributes significantly to regional stability and resilience in the face of natural disasters.

T20 World Cup 2024: Lockie’s Record-Breaking Spell Powers New Zealand to 7-Wicket Win Over PNG

June 18, 2024, 2:13 am

New Zealand concluded their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a resounding victory over Papua New Guinea, securing a comfortable seven-wicket win. This win enabled New Zealand to salvage some pride after a mixed tournament, finishing in third place in Group C with two wins and two losses.

The run-chase of 79 runs started with New Zealand losing opener Finn Allen for a duck, but a valuable partnership between Devon Conway and captain Kane Williamson steadied the innings. Despite a slow start, Conway’s aggressive batting and the composed approach of Williamson and Daryl Mitchell led New Zealand to victory.

In the match, New Zealand chose to bowl first after winning the toss. Their bowlers, including Lockie Ferguson, Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Ish Sodhi, and Mitchell Santner, delivered an outstanding performance. Notably, Lockie Ferguson’s historic bowling spell, where he took three wickets without conceding a run, played a pivotal role in restricting Papua New Guinea to 78/10 in 19.4 overs.

This clinical all-round performance by New Zealand, characterized by Lockie Ferguson’s exceptional bowling, enabled them to end their T20 World Cup journey on a high note.

Lockie Ferguson Registers Most Economical Spell in T20I Cricket, Sets New High with Stunning Bowling Figures

June 17, 2024, 11:23 pm

New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson made history in the ICC T20 World Cup with an extraordinary bowling performance against Papua New Guinea on Monday. During the match at Tarouba, Ferguson bowled a full quota of four overs, taking three wickets without conceding a single run. This remarkable feat marks the most economical spell ever recorded in T20I cricket, surpassing even Saad Bin Zafar’s memorable performance of two wickets for zero runs against Panama in 2021.

New Zealand, opting to bowl first after winning the toss, restricted Papua New Guinea to 78 all out in 19.4 overs. Apart from Ferguson’s exceptional bowling, Tim Southee (2/11), Trent Boult (2/14), Ish Sodhi (2/29), and Mitchell Santner (1/17) also contributed significantly with the ball for the Kiwis.

Despite a challenging tournament with losses to West Indies and Afghanistan, New Zealand remains hopeful of improving their standing in Group C with a win in this crucial match. Their lineup for the game included Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson (captain), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, and Trent Boult.

Papua New Guinea’s XI featured Tony Ura, Assad Vala (captain), Charles Amini, Sese Bau, Hiri Hiri, Chad Soper, Kiplin Doriga (wicketkeeper), Norman Vanua, Alei Nao, Kabua Morea, and Semo Kamea.

This match not only highlighted Ferguson’s exceptional bowling prowess but also underlined New Zealand’s determination to bounce back in the tournament despite earlier setbacks.

T20 World Cup Update: New Zealand Crash Out Of The Tournament After Afghanistan Defeat Papua New Guinea

June 14, 2024, 9:43 am

Afghanistan triumphed over Papua New Guinea by seven wickets in Match 29 of the T20 World Cup 2024, effectively eliminating New Zealand from the tournament.

Opting to bowl first, Afghanistan dominated PNG, restricting them to a mere 95 runs in 19.5 overs. In response, Afghanistan chased down the target effortlessly in just 15.1 overs.

With this victory, Afghanistan advanced to the Super 8 stages of the World Cup, concurrently ousting New Zealand.

The Kane Williamson-led squad had a catastrophic start, losing their opener to Afghanistan by a staggering 84 runs. Subsequent defeats, including a narrow 13-run loss to the West Indies, left them teetering on the brink of elimination.

Currently languishing at the bottom of Group C with a net run rate of -2.425 and being out of the running to win the T20 World Cup, the Kiwis, semi-finalists of the previous edition, now aim to conclude their campaign on a positive note with wins against Uganda and PNG in their remaining fixtures.

India Sends Tons of Relief Aid To Papua New Guinea After Deadly Landslides

June 13, 2024, 2:19 pm

India has dispatched approximately 19 tons of relief supplies to Papua New Guinea following devastating landslides that struck the island nation, causing significant casualties and infrastructure damage. The Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) supplies, part of India’s pledged USD 1 million assistance, were airlifted today, including food, temporary shelters, and medicines.

According to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, “India-Papua New Guinea standing together in times of difficulty. In the wake of devastating landslide in Enga province of Papua New Guinea, had announced immediate assistance of USD 1 million to our close FIPIC partner. Pursuant to the announcement, a flight carrying approx 19 tons of HADR supplies departed for today.”

Jaiswal further detailed the aid, stating, “The aid comprises 13 tons of disaster relief material including temporary shelter, water tanks, hygiene kits, meals ready to eat; and 6 tons of emergency use medicine, medical equipment including dengue and malaria diagnostic kits, baby food etc.”

India’s solidarity with Papua New Guinea was expressed earlier on May 28, when immediate relief assistance worth USD 1 million was announced after a massive landslide hit the Enga Province, causing significant loss of life and destruction. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed deep condolences and reiterated India’s readiness to extend all possible support to the Pacific island country.

This assistance aligns with India’s commitment to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), a key aspect of India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). The landslide in the Enga region claimed over 670 lives, with hundreds more feared buried under debris, underscoring the urgent need for international aid and support.

India Extends $1 Million Relief Aid to Landslide-Stricken Papua New Guinea

May 28, 2024, 2:13 pm

Following the devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea that claimed the lives of over 650 individuals, India announced immediate relief assistance amounting to USD 1 million to the affected nation. Expressing solidarity with Papua New Guinea, which recently faced a massive landslide in its Enga Province resulting in extensive loss of life and property, India pledged its support.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed heartfelt condolences and assured India’s willingness to provide all possible aid to the Pacific island nation during this challenging period. The Ministry of External Affairs stated, “As a close friend and partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) and as a gesture of solidarity with the friendly people of Papua New Guinea, the Government of India extends an immediate relief assistance of USD 1 million to support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.”

India has consistently stood by Papua New Guinea in times of calamity, including previous instances such as the earthquake in 2018 and volcanic eruptions in 2019 and 2023. Disaster Risk Reduction and Management are significant components of India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), as announced by Prime Minister Modi in November 2019. The statement emphasized India’s commitment to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), affirming its role as a responsible and steadfast responder.

The magnitude of the landslide is staggering, with over 2000 individuals feared buried under debris. Lusete Laso Mana, Acting Director of the National Disaster Centre, described the devastation in a letter to the UN, highlighting the significant impact on infrastructure, agriculture, and the economy. Yambali village alone saw more than 150 houses engulfed by the landslide.

Authorities have flagged the area as posing an “extreme risk” due to ongoing rockfalls and heightened pressure on exposed soil, underscoring the urgent need for support and assistance in the region.

Papua New Guinea: Over 2,000 People Feared Buried In A Landslide

May 27, 2024, 1:40 pm

Papua New Guinea has alerted the United Nations to a devastating landslide that reportedly buried more than 2,000 people in a remote village, according to a letter obtained by AFP. The country’s national disaster center conveyed to the UN office in Port Moresby that the landslide, triggered by a collapse on Mount Mungalo, resulted in significant destruction.

The catastrophe struck a once-vibrant hillside village in Enga province, virtually obliterating it as homes and residents were engulfed in the early hours of Friday. The disaster center highlighted the extensive damage inflicted on buildings, agricultural lands, and the country’s economic infrastructure.

Moreover, the critical highway leading to the Porgera Mine has been rendered impassable due to complete blockage, as stated in the letter received by UN officials on Monday morning. The situation remains precarious as ongoing landslips pose continuous threats to both rescue operations and survivors.

In response to the crisis in Papua New Guinea, the disaster center called for immediate and collaborative efforts from various stakeholders, including the army and national and regional responders. It urged the UN to disseminate information to Papua New Guinea’s development partners and international allies, emphasizing the need for coordinated assistance through the disaster center.

UN Migration Agency Reports Over 670 Fatalities In Papua New Guinea Landslide

May 26, 2024, 6:57 pm

Following a massive landslide in Papua New Guinea, the International Organization for Migration has increased its estimate of the death toll to over 670, according to Al Jazeera. The head of the UN agency’s mission in the South Pacific island nation, Serhan Aktoprak, announced on Sunday that the updated death toll was assessed by officials from Yambali village and Enga province, who estimated that over 150 houses had been submerged by the landslide as of Friday.

Previously, the number of destroyed houses was estimated to be 60. “They are estimating that more than 670 people [are] under the soil at the moment,” Aktoprak said, according to Al Jazeera. “The situation is terrible with the land still sliding. The water is running and this is creating a massive risk for everyone involved,” he added.

Tribal warfare and unstable ground hindered rescue efforts as emergency personnel moved survivors to safer areas. The landslide notably affected Kaokalam Village in Enga Province, about 600 kilometers northwest of Port Moresby, on Friday. Videos shared on social media show residents scaling massive rocks and pulling bodies from rubble and beneath trees. Additionally, the landslide has blocked the access road to Porgera town, where a large gold mine is located, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Deadly Landslide In Papua New Guinea Claims Over 100 Lives

May 24, 2024, 11:41 am

A massive landslide in a remote village of Papua New Guinea, specifically Kaokalam Village in Enga Province, has resulted in the deaths of more than 100 people. The incident occurred around 3 am and has left the village devastated. Villagers are currently engaged in recovering the bodies.

Although the residents estimate the death toll to be above 100, official confirmation from authorities is pending. Elizabeth Laruma, the president of the Porgera Women in Business Association, described the tragedy as houses being flattened by the side of a mountain collapsing.

“It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours and the entire village has gone down,” Laruma added.”From what I can presume, it’s about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground.” However, it is not yet clear whether emergency services have visited the remote area, as reported by ABC News.

Ninga Role, who is from Kaokalam but is attending university in Madang, said he received news of the damage this morning. He highlighted that according to his estimates, at least four of his relatives had been killed in the landslide. The videos shared on social media show residents scaling huge rocks and pulling bodies from rubble and beneath trees. “But it is difficult work”, Role stressed.

“There are some huge stones and plants, trees. The buildings (have) collapsed,” he said. “These things are making it hard to find the bodies fast.” Moreover, the landslide has also blocked the access road to the Porgera town, where a large gold mine is located, ABC reported.

Laruma said that people in the area were concerned about access to goods and services. “When this road is being closed off – and I don’t know how long it’s going to take – it’s going to have a really big impact on the people out there in terms of goods, fuel and services,” she said. “It’s going to have a big impact on the lives of the people of Porgera and the mine as well.” She further called on the PNG government and non-governmental organisations to provide aid with immediate relief to the area

Nepal strikes first, claiming two wickets as PNG scores 57 runs in powerplay

March 12, 2024, 9:49 am

In the powerplay encounter against Papua New Guinea (PNG), Nepal achieved early breakthroughs, claiming two wickets.

Having elected to bat after losing the toss, Nepal compiled a formidable total of 198 runs, losing six wickets, against Papua New Guinea (PNG).

The initial wicket for Nepal was taken by Pratish GC, securing an early breakthrough. Additionally, PNG’s second wicket was lost when Sese Bau was run out after scoring 21 runs.

Moreover, PNG’s opening batsman Tony Ura contributed 13 runs before being dismissed.

At present, Assad Vala and Hiri Hiri are working to establish a partnership, accumulating three and 18 runs, respectively.

During the powerplay, PNG managed to score 57 runs while losing two wickets.

Papua New Guinea: Indian Naval teams perform Yoga at Port Moresby harbor

August 3, 2023, 10:55 am

According to the Indian High Commission in Port Moresby, Indian Naval teams and locals practised yoga at the Port Moresby harbour in Papua New Guinea on Thursday.
The Papua New Guineans from the Active City Development Programme, NCD, joined the Indian sailors under the command of Captain Rajan Kapoor of the Indian Naval Ships (INS) Sahyadri. “Today, Papua New Guineans from the Active City Development Programme, NCD, joined Indian sailors from the INS Sahyadri, led by Capt. Rajan Kapoor, who did yoga in Port Moresby. Yoga for all people! Kutumbakam Vasudheiva. Enjoy the footage, please, the Indian High Commission tweeted.

“Yoga at Port Moresby harbour by Indian Naval Teams! Welcome PNGians who participated,” it added in a subsequent tweet.

INS Sahyadri (Frigate class) and INS Kolkata (Destroyer class) are on a goodwill visit to Papua New Guinea and will be docked at Port Moresby from August 2-4, the High Commission of India in Port Moresby said in a statement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a Sunday visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG) in May of this year. PM Modi presided over the third Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit during his visit.
During his visit, PM Modi conducted a bilateral meeting in Port Moresby with his counterpart from Papua New Guinea, James Marape, where they discussed ways to work together in the areas of business, technology, healthcare, and combating climate change. Additionally, he spoke with Bob Dadae, the governor-general of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea secure qualification for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

July 28, 2023, 2:19 pm

After crushing the Philippines in the ongoing East Asia Pacific Qualifier on Friday, Papua New Guinea guaranteed their place in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
The hosts of the competition, Papua New Guinea, entered the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier as the favorites, and they proved it there by consistently dominating. Leading by Assad Vala, the hosts have kept up their strong play, winning all five of their games thus far—twice against Vanuatu, once each against the Philippines and Japan.

With their latest win against the Philippines, the PNG now have 10 points from five wins, which resulted in a confirmed place in the 2024 T20 World Cup with still one game to go, against Japan, on Saturday, July 29.
The PNG began their qualification dream with a dominant win against Vanuatu. The 19-year-old John Kariko led the bowling attack with a Player of the Match-worthy effort of 3/6, restricting Vanuatu to 71/8. The tournament hosts chased down the target in just 6.3 overs, sealing a comfortable nine-wicket win.
In their next clash, PNG made headlines against the Philippines, with Kabua Morea’s breathtaking five-wicket haul which also featured a hat-trick. After opting to bat, PNG posted a competitive 162/7. Morea wreaked havoc with his spell of 5/9 as the Philippines crumbled for 45.

In the following two games, they defeated Japan and Vanuatu with ease, winning by six wickets and 39 runs, respectively. This extended their winning streak.
PNG once again demonstrated their talent in their most recent match against the Philippines on Friday, cruising to a 100-run victory in Port Moresby. The hosts’ enormous score of 229/6 in their 20 overs was made possible by an outstanding 118-run opening combination.
The PNG bowlers limited the Philippines to 129/7 in order to qualify, but the goal proved to be too high for them.