India announces relief assistance of US$ 1 million to Papua New Guinea after widespread property damage, deaths in landslide

New Delhi, May 28:  Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences and conveyed India’s readiness to extend all possible support and assistance to the Pacific island country in its time of difficulty.

“As a close friend and partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) and as a gesture of solidarity with the friendly people of Papua New Guinea, the Government of India extends an immediate relief assistance of US$ 1 million to support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts,” a press release issued by Ministry of External Affairs read.

India has firmly stood by Papua New Guinea during times of difficulty and devastation caused by natural disasters, as in the wake of the earthquake in 2018 and volcanic eruptions in 2019 and 2023.

An important pillar of India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI), announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2019, is Disaster Risk Reduction and Management. India is committed to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and continues to be a responsible and steadfast responder.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and extensive damage caused by a catastrophic landslide in Papua New Guinea.

Taking to X, PM Modi assured that India stands ready to provide all possible support and assistance following the disaster, which buried over 2,000 people and caused significant destruction.

A massive landslide occurred on 24 May 2024 in Enga Province, Papua New Guinea which buried hundreds of people and caused major destruction and loss.

“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives and damage caused by the devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea. Our heartfelt condolences to the affected families and prayers for a speedy recovery of the injured. India is ready to offer all possible support and assistance,” PM Modi posted.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, comprising the eastern half of New Guinea island and numerous offshore islands. It shares a land border with Indonesia to the west and is surrounded by the Coral Sea, Solomon Sea, and Bismarck Sea having a population of approximately nine million people, making it one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world.

It is home to over 800 indigenous languages and numerous ethnic groups, reflecting a rich mosaic of cultural traditions.

The country recognises the British monarch as its head of state, represented locally by a governor-general. The Prime Minister is the head of government.

The country is prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides, largely due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. These events frequently cause substantial human and economic losses.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Papua New Guinea on May 21-22, 2023. This visit marked his first trip to the Pacific Island nation and was significant as it underscored India’s commitment to strengthening its relations with Pacific Island countries.

During this visit, PM Modi co-chaired the third Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit with Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape.