APEC 2018 preparations

The emphasis last week during its workshop was on building the JSTF headquarters structure, the control, command, coordination and the communication requirements.

A panel discussion was also held to gather and establish the outcomes of ‘exercise long reach’. This was to discuss a way forward on which security aspect each agency will be responsible for during the APEC meet.

His remarks follow PM Peter O’Neill’s call on the Opposition to show maturity and try not to politicise important national events, especially APEC 2018.

O’Neill made the comments after Opposition member, Northern Governor Gary Juffa, stated that the K600 million earmarked for APEC can be used to fund crucial government services.

However, Polye guarantees the PM that they understand the issues well.

He said O’Neill should not overlook the real issues under the guise of international events.

Prime Minister O’Neill made the comments after Opposition member, Northern Governor Gary Juffa, stated that the K600 million can be used to fund crucial government services.

“The budget for APEC in 2017 will be significantly less than the false K600 million that the Opposition has taken out of thin air,” PM O’Neill said in a statement.

“Figures are being worked through now by our budget teams and will be further revised for the 2018 budget.

“Half of the expenditure on APEC next year will be an investment in the military and security of our nation.