The Papua New Guinea prime minister has made a rallying call to the youth of Morobe Province to help build up the country.
James Marape and his wife Rachael Marape signing the visitors book at Government House after arriving for his swearing in as Prime Minister of PNG. Photo: PNG PM Media
James Marape and his delegation are in Lae for his first official visit since being elected prime minister.
He spoke yesterday at an event marking the 52nd anniversary of his Pangu Party, during which he urged young people to build on the foundations his government was trying to lay for them.
"We are collecting these concepts and ideas, doing this work to give hope to you young people," he said.
"I am asking you young people to respect the women and children. You young men respect our young women and hopefully together you can make a difference in our country, to take our country down a better road and make it better."
The Post Courier reported that as well as government ministers and supporters Mr Marape's delegation includes Pangu Party founders Sir Michael Somare, Sir Peter Lus and Sir Rabbie Namaliu.