News
SMEC
joins
as
sponsor
of
the
37th
Australia-PNG
Business
Forum
SMEC recently participated as one of the sponsors of the 37th Australia-Papua New Guinea Business Forum held in Brisbane, Australia on 23-25 May 2022 with the theme: “Papua New Guinea: Return to Its Future – A Climate for Change”. As it was in 2021, the event was held concurrently at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and online, with a common speaking program.

Hosted by Mark Baker, President of the Australia Papua New Guinea Business Council, the three-day forum was an excellent opportunity for SMEC to network with businesses, government agencies and other interested parties active in promoting trade and investment between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Guests of honour were Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who sent thru a message to the participants, and Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, who was also present at the conference venue.

“The event was very effective in bringing together Papua New Guinea organisations under one roof. SMEC was very excited to reconnect with existing clients and explore opportunities with prospective partners who like SMEC are committed to pursuing sustainable infrastructure projects that will boost Papua New Guinea’s economic and employment growth,” said Zahid Iqbal, Regional Manager Pacific, who was present at the forum along with Nash Kobarajah, Country Manager Papua New Guinea.

SMEC has operated in Papua New Guinea since 1976 and has undertaken a number of projects in the country, including the Management of Transport Sector Support Program Phase 2, Civil Aviation Development Investment Program Technical Assistance, Dam Design Verification and Construction Management and Bulolo Water Supply Project Concept and Detailed Design for Taun Creek.

Pictured in main image and above: Zahid Iqbal, Regional Manager Pacific, with Nash Kobarajah, Country Manager, Papua New Guinea