AUSTRALIA’S MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS, Senator Bob Carr, today counselled all sides in Papua New Guinea to act with restraint following developments in Port Moresby concerning Chief Justice Injia.

Senator Carr said he had spoken directly with the PNG Foreign Minister Ano Pala to discuss the issue.

“As a friend of Papua New Guinea, Australia urges all parties to act with restraint in very difficult circumstances.

“Papua New Guinea has taken the crucial decision to proceed to elections in accordance with the Constitution — to give the PNG people the chance to determine their national leadership.

“It is important that recent events not distract from proceeding to those elections in a peaceful and orderly way.

“Australia remains fully committed to assist Papua New Guinea in the planning and holding of its elections.”