The Papua New Guinea Government will continue talks with Chinese businessman Chen Mailin in the hope he will solicit support for the country’s plan to engage in carbon trade with China, an official says.
Chen was one of the four men who arrived on a private jet in Port Moresby on Monday morning, raising questions over the purpose of their visit and why they were not quarantined like all others arriving in the country.
Papua New Guinea Environment, Conservation and Climate Change Minister Wera Mori said China was one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gas.
“We need a Chinese entrepreneur contact for possible engagements in carbon trade,” Mori told local media The National yesterday.
“PNG needs investments, especially direct foreign investment and not burden the country with very expensive loans.”
He said Chen was a businessman who was welcome to invest in PNG in accordance with its laws.
He said Chen would now be appointed as a climate change advocate.
“He will solicit support for us in our endeavour to address global warming and climate change,” Mori said.
Director of Political Affairs at the Chinese Embassy in Port Moresby Sun Jia could not provide any information on Chen.
“The visit was not arranged by the embassy,” he said.
“Please check with the PNG government.” According to a South China Morning Post article published last December, Chen had made his fortune in China through hotels and real estate development.
His business interests also include pharmaceuticals and garment manufacturing.
The National / Pacific Mining Watch
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