In the wake of the recent tragedies in Enga Province, Papua New Guinea, Forum Secretary General Henry Puna has conveyed his condolences and sympathies to the government and people of Papua New Guinea.
The mass fatalities resulting from the surge in warfare and violence deeply affected the region, prompting a solemn response from the Forum Secretary General.
Puna acknowledged the solidarity of the Pacific people in expressing condolences to the families and communities directly impacted by the mass killings.
“I know our people of the Pacific join me in expressing my deepest condolences to the families and communities affected by the terrible escalation of mass killings,” SG Puna said in a statement.
He emphasised the commitment of Forum Leaders to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, envisioning a future characterised by peace, harmony, security, social inclusion, and prosperity.
This vision, according to Puna, is aimed at ensuring that all Pacific peoples can lead free, healthy, and productive lives.
The Forum Secretary General denounced the recent violence, saying that it contradicts the fundamental values and aspirations of Pacific peoples.
“This violence goes against everything we strive for. It goes against who we are as Pacific peoples,” he said.
In response to the crisis, Puna urged all parties involved to seek peaceful resolutions to the conflict.
The Forum Secretary General assured the government and people of Papua New Guinea that the Forum stands ready to offer support in any way possible.
“I urge all parties involved to seek peaceful resolutions to this conflict, and acknowledge the key role of those enforcing the rule of law, providing immediate assistance to, and seeking justice for all civilians, including the many vulnerable groups that are also affected.
“The Forum stands ready to support the government and people of Papua New Guinea in any way it can.
“Our hearts and prayers go to the people of Papua New Guinea at this time,” Puna said on X (formerly twitter).
He acknowledged the gravity of the tragic loss, recognising the difficulty of finding words to convey the depth of grief and terror experienced by the affected community.
“There are no words to capture the magnitude of grief and terror for this tragic and horrific loss,” he said.
“A sobering moment for our Blue Pacific continent,” said Puna.
The Pacific Islands Forum stand by Papua New Guinea during this challenging time, reinforcing the collective effort to restore peace, security, and justice to the troubled region.
SOURCE: PACNEWS
