Somare seeks PGMA's support for PNG's ASEAN membership bid

BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan (PND) – Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare of Papua New Guinea has asked President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to support his nation’s bid for membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Somare sought the President’s support for PNG’s aspirations to join the ASEAN as a full member during the state dinner hosted by President Arroyo in his honor at the Shangri-la Resort here.

The PNG leader arrived here Sunday for a four-day (March 28-31) official visit to the Philippine.

“Unlike the Philippines, a full member of ASEAN, Papua New Guinea maintains a special observer status in this paramount regional organization,” Somare said.

“My government is seriously contemplating in seeking full membership in ASEAN; therefore, I seek your government’s positive consideration and support in this regard,” he added.

Somare pointed out that “Papua New Guinea is ready and able to fulfill the requirements of membership” in the regional grouping.

He also cited the need for a “well coordinated regional effort” to address the global financial meltdown “which undoubtedly is impacting our economies.”