Australia Mobilizes Aid for Papua New Guinea in Wake of Deadly Landslide
The two countries are in discussions about relief efforts following a deadly landslide in Enga province.
Australia is willing to assist Papua New Guinea after a tragic landslide claimed the lives of nearly 700 individuals.
According to the United Nations migration agency, over 670 people are believed to have perished and are now buried under the debris in a remote area of Enga province.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles revealed that government officials have been engaged in talks with their PNG counterparts to offer support since the incident occurred on May 24.
Speaking on ABC’s RN on Monday, Marles described the situation as a heartbreaking tragedy.
He emphasized the close relationship between the two neighboring countries and the swift support they have historically provided during natural disasters.
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Marles stated that details of the support Australia can offer will be finalized in the coming days, including airlifting capabilities to transport individuals to the affected area.
He explained, “We have been in talks with the PNG government regarding the assistance we can provide, and it is now a matter of determining our role in this challenging scenario given the remote location of the disaster site.”
The difficult terrain and remote location have hindered rescue and aid operations.
