Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister has responded to Joe Biden’s recent comment about his uncle’s fate in the country, calling it “loose” talk that doesn’t reflect the US president’s overall sentiments towards the nation.
“Sometimes you have loose moments,” said James Marape in an interview, emphasizing that the relationship between the two countries goes beyond “one blurry moment.”
Biden had suggested that his uncle, Ambrose Finnegan, was eaten by cannibals after his plane was shot down over Papua New Guinea during World War II. However, US defense records indicate that Finnegan’s aircraft crashed into the ocean, with no trace of him found on land.
Marape clarified that Biden has always shown warmth towards Papua New Guinea in their interactions, without ever mentioning cannibalism.
The prime minister urged the White House to focus on clearing unexploded ordnance leftover from World War II in Papua New Guinea, rather than dwelling on past remarks.
He highlighted the ongoing risk posed by these remnants, urging President Biden to prioritize their removal for the safety of the country’s inhabitants.
Papua New Guinea has long sought to move past outdated stereotypes, emphasizing the deeper values shared between the nation and the United States.
The effort to clear unexploded ordnance is crucial for the safety and well-being of Papua New Guinea’s population, and Marape hopes for meaningful action from the White House in this regard.
