Parts of Port Moresby and the airspace over the Jackson International Airport will be closed on 22 May when United States President Joe Biden arrives, says Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape.
Marape said city authorities would issue notices in the next 14 days on the changes to be made during Biden’s scheduled three-hour stop-over.
“For the first time, as part of security protocols, the airspace at the Jackson International Airport will be closed after the U.S President Joe Biden and his entourage land, and will re-open after he leaves,” he said.
“Parts of the city, including some main roads, will also be closed.”
Marape said the Government, after being informed of Biden’s visit last year, began planning for it.
The Government was informed of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit earlier.
Marape said the two world leaders would be attending the Forum for the India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).
“This is an unprecedented visit and historical one as this will be the first time that a sitting U.S President and the India Prime Minister, will visit our nation,” he said.
After the FIPIC, there will also be bilateral meetings between PNG and the U.S, and PNG and India, he added.
“The U.S President will be here not just to discuss security in the pacific or the geo politics,” he said.
“He will also be bringing investors who want to do business (in PNG).”
Marape said the country had 14 days left to finalise everything.
“I have met with all government departments and agencies and their ministers to finalise the programme,” he said.
“Modi will arrive on Sunday, 21 May at 11pm.
“Biden is expected to arrive on Monday, 22 May.
“I call on all Papua New Guineans, wherever you are in the country, to show your support for this historical visit and make our two chief guests welcome,” he said.
SOURCE: THE NATIONAL/PACNEWS
