New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins was given a rousing welcome when he visited Gordons Market at 10am Monday morning.
He was accompanied by the governor of National Capital District Powes Parkop.
Police media say a red carpet welcome was not rolled out but the joy, laughter, cheers and energy from the people and vendors was sufficient to relay a thank you message to the people of New Zealand, that their investment in gifting Gordons Market to Port Moresby, has played a significant role in financially empowering the people.
Governor Powes Parkop, who accompanied Prime Minister Hipkins said, fresh fruits & vegetables from other parts of PNG are either shipped or air freighted to Gordons Market to meet the food demands of NCD residents.
He said Gordons Market will continue to be the empowerment factor for small to medium enterprise and the informal sector.
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| NCD Governor Powes Parkop cheers with a citizen as PM Chris Hipkins leads the entry Pic Benjamin Dominic, Gordons Police |
Vendors, mothers, women, children, Papua New Guineans from all walks of life as well as members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary were honoured with the visit by New Zealand Prime Minister and his entourage.
Mr Hipkins paid a 30-minute visit to the market on his way to the FIPIC Meeting venue at the APEC House in Port Moresby.
Gordons Market, PNG’s largest market two storey complex was built with funding support from the New Zealand Government totalling K30 million.
It was opened at the end of 2019.
The Acting Officer in Charge of Gordons Community Policing, First Constable Benjamin Dominic, said members of the Constabulary as well as the public were gathered as early as 7am Monday morning to ensure that the market and surrounding areas were ready for the visit.
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| Part of the crowd welcoming NZ Prime Minister Chris Hipkins Photo Benjamin Dominic Gordons Police |
The old Gordons Market was notorious with shoppers usually attacked by street thugs and their valuables or shopping taken away.
The new market has seen presence of guards, it's food sale neatly organised and many residents now enjoy shopping at the market.
It has ample parking for shoppers.
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