Papua New Guinea's prime minister has broken his silence about the controversial arrival of a private jet in Port Moresby.
International airport in Port Moresby Photo: Supplied
Earlier this week, the former prime minister Peter O'Neill revealed to media that a jet from Hong Kong had arrived at Jackson's Airport, alleging its passengers bypassed normal entry procedures.
However James Marape said the four Chinese visitors were in PNG on business and had been given "clearance" through the proper process.
The newspaper The National says Acting Health Secretary Dr Paison Dakulala signed permission for the aircraft to land.
Mr O'Neill earlier raised concern about the government's secrecy regarding the arrival which appeared to contravene PNG laws.
But the prime minister said the Chinese and their crew were being quarantined in a designated hotel and closely monitored as they carry out their business.
According to National Pandemic Controller David Manning, the visitors came to make representations about assistance for PNG's covid-19 response.
Mr Manning said 50,000 face masks and 20 ventilators, worth around US$280,000, were to be shipped later to the country.