In a recent visit to the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States and the European Union (EU) in Brussels in November, Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, Rimbink Pato, announced that EU visa processing for Papua New Guinea (PNG) citizens will soon be available in Port Moresby.
This development has been eagerly anticipated by PNG's exporters, importers, and citizens, as it eliminates the need to travel to other countries, such as Singapore, Manila, or Australia, at great expense to obtain their visas.
EU visas for PNG citizens
The National Newspaper reported on November 1, 2018, that a key outcome of the visit was the agreement to process EU visas for PNG citizens in Port Moresby by mid-2019.
As the middle of 2019 approaches, many people are eagerly awaiting an update on the progress of this promise.
This development is significant as it will make it more convenient and cost-effective for PNG citizens to obtain visas for travel to European countries.
Visa for European countries
Currently, obtaining a visa for European countries requires travel to other countries where EU visa processing centres are located. This can be time-consuming and costly for PNG citizens, who have to bear the expenses of travel, accommodation, and other associated costs.
By having EU visa processing available in Port Moresby, PNG citizens will be able to save both time and money, making travel to Europe more accessible and convenient.
EU visa processing in Port Moresby
The availability of EU visa processing in Port Moresby is expected to have a positive impact on PNG's exporters and importers as well.
Many PNG businesses engage in trade with European countries, and obtaining visas for business purposes can be a cumbersome process.
With EU visa processing available locally, businesses can expect reduced administrative burdens and costs associated with obtaining visas, which could potentially boost trade between PNG and European countries.
Strengthen diplomatic relations - EU and PNG
It is worth noting that the implementation of EU visa processing in Port Moresby is part of the broader efforts by the PNG government to strengthen diplomatic relations and promote trade and tourism with European countries.
The government's efforts in this regard are aimed at fostering economic growth, creating job opportunities, and improving the livelihoods of PNG citizens.
As the mid-2019 deadline approaches, PNG citizens, businesses, and stakeholders are eagerly anticipating the availability of EU visa processing in Port Moresby.
Once implemented, this development is expected to bring about greater convenience and cost savings for PNG citizens, as well as support increased trade and tourism between PNG and Europe.
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