United States President Joe Biden has canceled his visit to Papua New Guinea, citing the need to focus on debt limit talks in Washington. While security arrangements for other leaders, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, were already in place, Biden's visit has been called off. He was scheduled to arrive in Port Moresby on Monday afternoon, sign important agreements during his three-hour visit, and then proceed to Sydney, Australia, to attend the Quad leaders meeting.
In a statement released by the White House on Tuesday, it was emphasised that the cancellation was necessary for Biden to address the pressing issue of the debt limit in Congress. The President called upon members of both the Republican and Democratic parties to unite and prevent a default.
The US embassy in Port Moresby will provide information about which senior US official will visit PNG to sign the key agreements on behalf of the President.
Despite the cancellation of Biden's visit, Internal Security Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr confirmed that security planning and preparations would continue. He assured that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit was still on schedule and that security measures would be maintained accordingly. Tsiamalili clarified that the closure of the country's airspace would only be implemented if President Biden had come.
Assistant Police Commissioner Anthony Wagambie Jr, responsible for National Capital District and Central, will oversee the operational side of the security exercise. The Defense Force, Correctional Services, and Fire Services will also be involved in ensuring the safety of the visiting leaders.
The White House's statement emphasised the importance of revitalising and reinvigorating alliances and partnerships like the Quad. While the cancellation of Biden's visit is a setback, the United States remains committed to engaging with Australia, the Quad, PNG, and the leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum to promote global stability and prosperity in the coming year.
