Marape conveys appreciation for admirable reception for Pope Francis

Prime Minister James Marape has conveyed his appreciation to Papua New Guineans for putting on an excellent reception for the Pope over the weekend in Port Moresby.

He urged that this similar conduct be carried forward long-term so the country could experience more peace among its citizens.

“I want to ask our people, as I have continuously done so in the past. Living in peace with each other is the easiest contribution of service our people can render to God and to our country to live with each other in peace, harmony and respect. It is free and comes at no cost to you,” Mr Marape said.

Prime Minister Marape reminded the youth of work currently happening under this government to assist better their lives, such as the expansion in distance and open learning education, the expansion in universities and college spaces.

He also spoke about new upcoming scholarships for young people in various programs, and the focus on SME to encourage youth to get into self-employment and also become job creators themselves.

“These are work we have already started. We do not expect things to change overnight but I assure our young people that we have started. I want to ask our people to let politicians play their politics, and let us support our police by maintaining our Law & Order in the country.

“I encourage hard work, ethics in both our living and working lives, and call for healing within us and forgiveness toward each other,” said PM Marape.

The Prime Minister said the theme of this year’s Independence anniversary will reflect the papal visit and message.

It will center on Reconciliation, National Unity, and Respect of the Rule of Law.

“We head over the week into our 49th anniversary, our nation must ponder on the Pontiff’s message of unity, peace and love.

“We must forgive and reconcile within our families, tribes because of many tribal fights, and Bougainville because of its longstanding issue,” said PM Marape said in a statement.