Papua New Guinea (PNG) appoints its inaugural defence adviser to India, Colonel Edison Napyo, marking a significant stride in bilateral defence cooperation. The move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s advocacy for a free and open Indo-Pacific during his visit to PNG in May 2023. Commodore Philip Polewara, PNG’s acting Chief of Defence Force, emphasized Napyo’s role in bridging military ties. Concurrently, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit hints at potential free trade discussions. Recent interactions, including PNG Prime Minister James Marape’s reception of Indian naval vessels, underscore India’s deepening engagement in the Pacific.
Papua New Guinea Appoints First Defence Adviser to India Amid Growing Indo-Pacific Relations
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