Chinese Embassy Donates K80,000 to Support MSG Prime Minister’s Cup

The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China has donated K80,000 in support of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s Cup 2025, further strengthening the friendship and cooperation between China and Papua New Guinea through sports.

The donation was officially presented to the Host Organizing Committee (HOC) in Port Moresby today (12th November) by the Chargé d’Affaires a.i. & Minister-Counsellor, Mr. Pang Hanzhao, during a brief handover ceremony attended by the HOC Chairman, H.E. Mr. Leonard Louma, and committee members.

Mr. Pang said the contribution symbolizes the close ties and shared passion for football between the two nations.

“Today, football remains one of the most popular sports in China, and this shared passion for the game brings the people of China and PNG even closer together,” Mr. Pang said.

"China and PNG are now actively working towards signing an MOU on sports cooperation, which will enable broader and deeper collaboration in this field and further enrich our comprehensive strategic partnership.

"I wish the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup every success, the participating teams excellent performance, and the sports cause in PNG even greater success.”

On behalf of the Prime Minister and the Minister for Sports, HOC Chairman Leonard Louma expressed appreciation for China’s continued support in sports development across Papua  New Guinea.

“I want to reassure you of the PNG Government’s appreciation for the continued and enduring assistance rendered to the development of sports in PNG by the People’s Republic of China,” Mr.  Louma said.

“Your contribution to the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup not only reflects the friendship between our nations but also highlights China’s commitment to the growth of football and regional cooperation.”

In a separate presentation, Prouds PNG, under the CPL Group, donated 300 cases of water valued at approximately K10,000 to support the tournament’s operations.

CPL Group General Manager Marketing and Advertising Christopher Lam said the company was proud to back the regional sporting event.

“It’s always good to support sporting events that happen in PNG, especially when they include regional countries as well. We trust this contribution will go a long way in supporting everyone involved in the tournament,” Mr. Lam said.

Mr. Louma thanked CPL for their timely contribution, noting the importance of the private sector's involvement in hosting successful events. 

“We sincerely thank CPL for this generous support — the water is essential for the tournament, and this assistance is truly appreciated. We hope other business houses will follow suit and come on board to support this regional event,” he said. 

The MSG Prime Minister’s Cup 2025 kicked off in Port Moresby yesterday (Nov 11), with matches to be played at Sir John Guise Stadium and the PNG Football Stadium. The finals are set for Nov 23. 

PC: Supplied