Charles Lepani, as current PNG High Commmissioner to Australia, reflects on the characteristics of Australia's approach to the fledgling government of PNG. He stresses the importance of the Moti Affair and Somare Affair in convincing PNG of the need to reduce Australia's aid. He reflects on Australia's generosity, and also on the need to mature the relationship in the last 15 years as between equals, working mutually and inter-dependantly on economic, trade, investment and people relations. He highlights the absence of a visa-on-arrival agreement as a point of contention.
Michael Somare states that he discussed with Gough Whitlam the importance of at least 4 or 5 years of continuing Australian presence in PNG for training, and his discussions regarding ongoing financial assistance to PNG from Australia with both Gough Whitlam and Andrew Peacock.
