Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister Peter O'Neill has extended condolences on the passing of former Australian Prime Minister, Bob Hawke.
Photo: AFP
Mr O'Neill said as prime minister, trade union leader and statesman, Mr Hawke was a great friend to PNG.
Mr Hawke visited PNG many times and, according to Mr O'Neill, played an important role in the Melanesian country's development.
"During the Prime Ministership of Mr Hawke from 1983 to 1991, the relationship between Papua New Guinea and Australia matured, diversified, and was mutually
beneficial, and for that our country thanks him.
"Through his many years in politics he was a true and genuine friend of our leaders, including successive Prime Ministers of Papua New Guinea," Mr O'Neill said.
"As a person, Mr. Hawke was a true character, a larger than life Leader who inspired generations."
