PNG trade advisor named MSG Secretariat Director General

Posted at 00:05 on 31 May, 2008 UTC

The Melanesian Spearhead Group has named a Papua New Guinean, Rima Ravusiro, as the first ever Director General of its new Secretariat, which was officially on Thursday in Vanuatu’s capital.

The opening co-incided with the conclusion of the 17th MSG Leaders Summit in Port Vila, at which PNG handed the chairmanship of the group to hosts Vanuatu for a three year term.

Mr Ravusiro holds a Masters degree in Development Economics from the University of Queensland and Science and Arts degrees from the University of PNG.

Prior to his appointment the 53-year old was Trade Advisor to PNG’s Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration.

Meanwhile, PNG’s Prime Minister has ruled out the MSG granting observer status to West Papuans of Indonesia.

Sir Michael Somare says that Papua is an internal issue for Jakarta and that the people aren’t ready for observer status anyway.

“When people are prepared for their autonomous government, self government in their respective countries, they are allowed to be given observer status in the Forum, that’s the rule we have been carrying on from there on and still stands the same.”

Sir Michael Somare

News Content © Radio New Zealand International
PO Box 123, Wellington, New Zealand

Latest Headlines

Exxonmobil suspends work in several areas of PNG LNG project.
full story

Southern Cooks prepares for Cyclone Pat.
full story

Legal advisor claims Fiji mine workers have legitimate case.
full story

New Fiji crime decree geared to suit regime, says NGO.
full story

 

Seconday Navigation

Section Menu