51.   PNG is scheduled to hold a general election mid-year against the backdrop of economic crisis, a sharply divided parliament, regional rivalries and deteriorating law and order.

52.   PNG is set to hold a general election in June against the backdrop of economic crisis, a sharply divided parliament, regional rivalries and deteriorating law and order.

53.   Political commentators said voters were turned off by partisan politics and regional rivalry.

54.   Regional rivalry between Iran and Turkey as well as the war in Afghanistan have hamstrung efforts to forge economic and trade links between member states.