It is now reported that last month's cancellation of a cruise ship visit in Papua New Guinea was not because of security risk.
The Pacific Princess with 700 passengers on board was to have made a call in Rabaul in East New Britain but the stop was cancelled.
But Peter Cohen of Steamships Shipping Agencies in Rabaul has told The National that the cancellation of the visit was due to operational reasons and not security concern.
The cancellation caused dismay among guides and operators as well as craftsmen in preparation for the arrival of the tourist vessel.
There was also criticism of the media for making exaggerated reports about security in the area.
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