External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently extended heartfelt gratitude to Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong for her collaboration with India in delivering Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to the landslide-stricken Enga Province in Papua New Guinea. This joint effort underscores the robust partnership between India and Australia, particularly in addressing humanitarian crises in the Indo-Pacific region.
Strengthening Bonds in the Indo-Pacific
“So glad we could coordinate, FM @SenatorWong. #IndiaAustraliaDosti delivering HADR assistance in the Indo-Pacific,” he posted on X (formerly known as Twitter). This collaboration highlights the synergy between the two nations in responding swiftly and effectively to natural disasters in neighboring regions.
So glad we could coordinate FM @SenatorWong. #IndiaAustraliaDosti delivering HADR assistance in the Indo-Pacific. 🇮🇳 🇦🇺 https://t.co/7hmIbIEN5I
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 21, 2024
Coordinated Relief Efforts
Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong also acknowledged the collaboration, noting Australia’s commitment to working with international partners to provide essential aid. She mentioned that Australia had facilitated the transport of Indian relief supplies to the affected areas in Papua New Guinea, further strengthening the collaborative response to the disaster.
“Australia is coordinating with partners to ensure the delivery of much-needed assistance to our Papua New Guinean family. We were pleased to transport a package of Indian supplies to the landslide-affected Enga Province as we visited the disaster zone,” Minister Wong shared on X.
Australia is coordinating with partners to ensure the delivery of much needed assistance to our Papua New Guinean family.
We were pleased to transport a package of Indian supplies to the landslide affected-Enga Province as we visited the disaster zone. pic.twitter.com/HS4D6KTLMm
— Senator Penny Wong (@SenatorWong) June 20, 2024
Timely Humanitarian Assistance
The substantial humanitarian aid from India, valued at USD 1 million, reached Papua New Guinea last Friday. The relief consignment was warmly received by PNG Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko, Defence Minister Billy Joseph, and other dignitaries at Port Moresby airport. The Indian High Commissioner in Papua New Guinea, Inbasekar S., handed over the supplies, which were set to be dispatched to Wabag shortly.
Foreign Minister Tkatchenko expressed profound gratitude to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Minister Jaishankar, and the people of India for their timely support. “US$ 1 million HADR relief assistance for victims of landslides in Enga province, from India, reached Port Moresby airport; received by H.E. Justin Tkatchenko, PNG Foreign Minister, Dr. Billy Joseph, Defence Minister, Secy, PNG Dept of Foreign Affairs Mr. Wohengu & Enga Provincial Admr Tsaka. High Commr Inbasekar S handed over material to @TkatchenkoMP who felicitated @DrSJaishankar India for timely help. Relief will be dispatched to Wabag shortly. Vishvabandhu in action!” the Indian Embassy in Papua New Guinea posted on X.
A History of Solidarity
India’s swift response to this disaster is part of a longstanding tradition of support to Papua New Guinea during times of need. Over the years, India has consistently provided aid following natural calamities, including the 2018 earthquake and the volcanic eruptions in 2019 and 2023. This enduring support highlights India’s commitment to international solidarity and humanitarian assistance.
The recent landslide in Enga Province was catastrophic, with estimates from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) indicating that over 670 lives were lost. The tragedy has underscored the importance of timely and effective humanitarian aid, and the joint efforts of India and Australia have made a significant impact in alleviating the suffering of the affected communities.Tthe collaboration between India and Australia in delivering aid to Papua New Guinea exemplifies the strength of their partnership and their shared commitment to humanitarian values. This cooperation not only reinforces their bilateral relations but also contributes significantly to regional stability and resilience in the face of natural disasters.