On 13 September, H.E. Yang Xiaoguang, Chinese Ambassador to PNG met with Hon. Wai Rapa, Governor for Western Highlands Province.

Ambassador Yang acknowledged the efforts of Governor Rapa to promote the relations and subnational exchanges between China and PNG, introduced the strategic deployment and significance of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and said that the Chinese side is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with the Western Highlands for the benefit of local people. Ambassador Yang expressed concern about the recent violent crimes against Chinese citizens in the Western Highlands, and asked the Western Highlands Province to make every effort to bring all criminals to justice as soon as possible, and take practical and effective measures to protect the safety and legitimate interests of local Chinese communities and Chinese companies, so as to create a better environment for bilateral cooperation.

Governor Rapa recalled his visit to Shanxi Province of China earlier this year. He thanked China for its valuable support for PNG's economic and social development, and said that the Western Highlands Province looks forward to deepening cooperation with China in various fields, and is working hard to fight crime and maintain law and order. The Western Highlands welcomes more Chinese companies to invest and operate in the province to support local development.