19 Nov 2018

Disappointment over Chinese media restrictions at PNG summit

5:42 pm on 19 November 2018

A Papua New Guinea journalist barred from covering a side event at the APEC summit says Chinese officials allowed access for only their country's media at three events.

APEC Haus

APEC Haus Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Johnny Blades

Meriba Tulo from EMTV was one of dozens of accredited local and international journalists turned away from Chinese President Xi Jinping's meeting with Pacific Island leaders.

Pacific leaders were scheduled to discuss climate change and illegal fishing, as well as as their infrastructure development needs with Mr Xi.

However details are scant from the event due to the poor media coverage.

Mr Tulo said it was surprising as they had accreditation from both PNG's Department of Communication and the Chinese Embassy.

"So we were a bit disappointed when we found out we couldn't attend. We expected to be there just for photo opportunities at the start and also at the end but then we got kicked out."

Chinese officials interfered with broadcast equipment of journalists at the opening of Independence Boulevard, Mr Tulo said.

They also restricted access at Mr Xi's opening of the new road, and at another Chinese funded project, the Butuka Academy China friendship school.

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