Statement
Pacific Islands Forum SG, Henry Puna
On the recent deaths and outbreak of violence in Enga, Papua New Guinea.
I wish to express my sincerest sympathies to the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, following the mass fatalities in the latest spate of warfare and violence in Enga Province this week.
I know our people of the Pacific join me in expressing my deepest condolences to the families and communities affected by the terrible escalation of mass killings.
Forum Leaders, through the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, share a vision for a Pacific Region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion and prosperity, that ensures all Pacific peoples can lead free, healthy and productive lives.
Our Leaders are committed to achieving this vision.
This violence goes against everything we strive for. It goes against who we are as Pacific peoples.
I urge all parties involved to seek peaceful resolutions to this conflict, and acknowledge the key role of those enforcing the rule of law, providing immediate assistance to, and seeking justice for all civilians, including the many vulnerable groups that are also affected.
The Forum stands ready to support the government and people of Papua New Guinea in any way it can.
[ENDS]
