New Delhi: The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, expressed gratitude to the Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promptly dispatching humanitarian aid following the volcanic eruption of Mount Ulawun in West New Britain. Marape stated, "I thank Prime Minister Modi for the generous help, within a short period of time, as soon as he received my request for assistance." He appreciated India's commitment to supporting relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts in West New Britain, highlighting the friendship and partnership between the two nations.
The Indian government sent around 11 tonnes of disaster relief material and 6 tonnes of medical aid, valued at $1 million, to assist in the aftermath of the volcanic eruption. The aid package included tents, sleeping mats, hygiene kits, meals ready to eat, water storage tanks, essential medicines, surgical items, and sanitary pads. This assistance is crucial in addressing the urgent humanitarian needs created by the eruption of Mount Ulawun on November 20, which led to the evacuation of over 26,000 people.
India has consistently supported Papua New Guinea during times of crisis caused by natural disasters, demonstrating solidarity and providing assistance in the aftermath of the earthquake in 2018 and the volcanic eruption in 2019. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Papua New Guinea on May 21, 2021, after attending the G7 meeting in Japan. During his visit, Prime Minister Marape greeted Modi at the airport with a gesture of touching his feet, symbolizing deep respect. This warm reception was followed by a hug between the two leaders, emphasizing the strong ties between India and Papua New Guinea. Modi's visit marked a historic moment as he became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the island nation.
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