It’s a rare sight to see rugby teams of Pacific countries coming together to share a meal off of the rugby field.

But that was what happened in Port Moresby yesterday when PNG Prime Minister, James Marape hosted a warm and culturally enriched dinner for PNG Kumuls, Fiji Batis, and Cook Islands men’s and women’s teams.

The dinner served as a farewell kaikai for the Cook Islands’ men’s and women’s teams. Who spent two memorable weeks in Port Moresby participating in the Pacific Championship Bowl tournament.

Marape thanked and acknowledged the Cook Islands and Fiji Rugby League Teams for their participation and stay in Port Moresby.

“The contacts that you make today are the ones you will keep forever. We appreciate that you have spent two weeks with us. Take the memories of Papua New Guinea with you as you return home. And consider visiting us again in the future,” Marape told the players.

The Fijian side will still be in country to prepare for their match against PNG this coming weekend.

Marape, while speaking to the players emphasized the potential collaboration between PNG and the Pacific Islands. Asserting that if PNG succeeds in securing its bid for the 18th Australian NRL team, Pacific players will be an integral part of the team, based out of PNG.

“As Cook Islands leave, we thank you, on behalf of the entire 800 plus tribes of Papua New Guinea, including the Motu-Koita people on whose land we stay today,” Marape added.

Speaking as the big brother nation, Marape emphasised the sense of unity among Pacific Island countries.

“We regard the visiting teams as family, and all of us are part of one Pacific,” Marape remarked.

Marape believes the long-lasting friendships and contacts forged during this tournament will be treasured by the players.

” To the young players, he offered words of encouragement, highlighting their promising future in rugby league,” Marape concluded.

Recent: https://insidepng.com/more-matches-for-pacific-islanders/