Papua New Guinea’s PM touches Modi’s feet: Why this island country is important for India
In a gesture of respect, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape touched Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s feet during a meeting in New Delhi on May 23, 2023. The incident has sparked a debate about cultural norms and sensitivities.
Some people have praised Marape for his gesture, saying it shows his deep respect for Modi and the Indian people. Others have criticized him, saying it is a sign of subservience and that it reinforces negative stereotypes about Papua New Guineans.
Marape has defended his actions, saying that he was simply following traditional Papua New Guinean customs. He said that in his culture, it is considered a sign of respect to touch the feet of elders and leaders.
Modi has also spoken out in support of Marape, saying that he understood the gesture and that it was not meant to be disrespectful. He said that he was grateful for Marape’s gesture and that it showed the strong ties between the two countries.
The incident has highlighted the cultural differences between India and Papua New Guinea. It has also raised questions about the role of cultural norms in international relations.
Some experts believe that Marape’s gesture was a sign of respect and that it should be seen in the context of Papua New Guinean culture. They argue that it is important to be sensitive to cultural differences when dealing with other countries.
Other experts believe that Marape’s gesture was a sign of subservience and that it reinforces negative stereotypes about Papua New Guineans. They argue that it is important to challenge cultural norms that are harmful or discriminatory.
The incident is likely to continue to be debated for some time. It is a complex issue with no easy answers. However, it is important to have a discussion about cultural norms and sensitivities in order to promote understanding and respect between different cultures.
# Why Papua Guinea Is Important For India?
Papua New Guinea is important for India for a number of reasons.
Geostrategic location: Papua New Guinea is located in the strategically important Indo-Pacific region. It is a member of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), which is a regional security forum. India is keen to strengthen its ties with the MSG countries in order to counter China’s growing influence in the region.
Economic potential: Papua New Guinea is a resource-rich country with vast reserves of oil, gas, and minerals. India is looking to invest in Papua New Guinea’s natural resources in order to boost its own economic growth.
People-to-people ties: There are strong people-to-people ties between India and Papua New Guinea. There is a large Indian diaspora in Papua New Guinea, and there are many cultural similarities between the two countries.
Shared interests: India and Papua New Guinea share a number of common interests, including the fight against terrorism, climate change, and maritime security. India is working with Papua New Guinea to address these challenges.
In recent years, India has strengthened its ties with Papua New Guinea. In 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Papua New Guinea and signed a number of agreements, including a memorandum of understanding on defense cooperation. India has also provided Papua New Guinea with financial assistance and technical assistance.
India’s engagement with Papua New Guinea is part of its larger strategy to strengthen its ties with the Indo-Pacific region. India is keen to play a more active role in the region and to counter China’s growing influence. Papua New Guinea is a key partner for India in this effort.
# About Papua Guinea Prime Minister: James Marape
James Marape is a prominent political figure from Papua New Guinea. Born on April 24, 1971, in the Tari-Pori district of Hela Province, Marape has had a significant impact on the political landscape of his country. He is currently serving as the eighth Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, assuming office on May 30, 2019.
Marape’s political career began in 2002 when he was elected as a Member of Parliament representing the Tari-Pori constituency. Over the years, he held several ministerial positions, including Minister for Finance, Minister for Planning and Monitoring, and Minister for Education. His contributions to these roles were characterized by a focus on economic development, education, and social welfare.
In May 2019, Marape resigned from his position as Minister for Finance and led a group of members in a motion of no confidence against the then Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill. The motion was successful, resulting in Marape’s appointment as the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea. His rise to power was driven by his commitment to combating corruption, improving governance, and ensuring that the country’s vast natural resources benefit its people.
One of the central pillars of Marape’s leadership is his vision for a prosperous and self-reliant Papua New Guinea. He has emphasized the importance of economic independence, advocating for policies that promote local industries and investments. Marape has called for a fair distribution of wealth, with an emphasis on empowering local communities and ensuring that foreign investors contribute to the nation’s development.
Under Marape’s leadership, Papua New Guinea has also witnessed a renewed focus on environmental conservation and sustainable development. He has been vocal about protecting the country’s rich biodiversity and addressing the adverse effects of climate change. Marape’s government has taken steps to strengthen environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices in sectors such as mining and logging.
Furthermore, Marape has been actively engaged in foreign policy, advocating for Papua New Guinea’s interests on the international stage. He has sought to strengthen regional partnerships and enhance cooperation with neighboring countries in areas such as trade, security, and infrastructure development. Marape has also been an advocate for Pacific Island nations, raising concerns about issues such as climate change and the impacts of globalization on small island states.
However, Marape’s leadership has not been without challenges. Papua New Guinea faces numerous socio-economic issues, including high levels of poverty, inadequate healthcare and education systems, and a lack of infrastructure in many remote areas. Tackling these challenges requires comprehensive reforms and long-term planning, which Marape’s government has been working towards.
In conclusion, James Marape has emerged as a prominent political figure in Papua New Guinea, leading the country as its Prime Minister since May 2019. He has prioritized issues such as economic development, governance, environmental conservation, and social welfare. Marape’s vision for a prosperous and self-reliant Papua New Guinea, coupled with his commitment to combat corruption and ensure equitable distribution of wealth, has positioned him as a significant force in shaping the nation’s future.
