The PNG Deputy Prime Minister Dr Puka Temu said that International Olympic Committee (IOC) President pledged his support to the bid during a recent visit to Port Moresby, the country's capital.

 

Temu said the Government viewed sports as an important tool for national unity and development.

 

He said: “We agree with the IOC that the role sports played in uniting the country and developing young people in terms of education and sports skills was very important.

 

“In terms of overall human development at the personal level, young people could think with clarity and be able to organise and discipline themselves - traits which the Government recognise can be achieved through sports."

 

PNG is one of three bids for the 2015 Games, which were first held in 1963 and now take place every four years and feature 32 sports and disciplines.

 

The other bidding countries are Tonga and the Solomon Islands.

 

American Samoa withdrew at the last minute.

 

A decision is due on September 27 when the 21 other countries in the region will vote on where the Games should be held.

 

Temu said: “The benefits of hosting the Games, like we did in 1969 and 1991, are enormous in terms of infrastructure development, mobilising and organising the country."

 

The 2013 Games are due to be held in New Caledonia.

 

During his visit Rogge pledged to give the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee $250,000 (£169,950) towards building a new Olympic house.

 

Temu said: “We need to demonstrate that we are true partners with the IOC, and an Olympic house should reflect this."