September 30, 2021The NationalNational
“While commending the UN on the peace efforts in Papua New Guinea, I would also like to remind all the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ decision in 2019 and the outstanding visit by the UN mechanism to address the alleged human rights concerns in our neighbourhood,” he said in his address at the 76th UN general assembly in New York.
“This visit is important to ensure that the greater people of the region have peace within their respective sovereignties and their rights and cultural dignities are fully maintained.”
Meanwhile, United Liberation Movement of West Papua interim president Benny Wenda thanked Marape for addressing their issues at assembly.
“West Papua faces a double crisis of Indonesian military operations and the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic,” he said.
“When my people see our Pacific neighbours speaking out against human rights abuses in our land, it gives us the hope and courage the need to keep fighting, to keep raising our cry for freedom and justice.
“It remains vital that Pacific nations like PNG and Vanuatu continue to speak out about West Papua, to let the world know what is happening to our Melanesian brothers and sisters.
“Marape, I thank you with my spirit and heart for your continued stand for human rights.
