Recent statements by United States President Joe Biden insinuating that his uncle may have been a victim of cannibalism during World War II have caused unrest in Papua New Guinea.
Biden, in comments made after a visit to a war memorial, twice suggested that the U.S. had failed to recover the remains of his uncle, Ambrose Finnegan, after his plane crashed near the island of New Guinea during the war “because it used to there are many cannibals” in the region.
In response, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape stated: “President Biden’s remarks may have been a slip; however, my country does not deserve to be labeled as such”, said Marape, raising his tone against the American leader.
Although cannibalism has been documented among remote tribes in the region in the past, Papua New Guinea has sought to act against stereotypes. Amid the matter, Biden’s comments were met with criticism within the country.
“Papua New Guinea should not be seen as cannibalistic because of our past history. We are part of modern civilization,” said a comment on social media. Others questioned the veracity of Biden’s claims.
Papua New Guinea’s Foreign Minister, Justin Tkatchenko, warned that Biden’s ‘misinformed’ remarks could harm bilateral relations, which have strengthened in recent years, even more so in light of China’s growing influence in the Pacific region.
“These apparently false statements by the acting president are harmful to our bilateral relations,” added Tkatchenko.
Tags: Joe Biden generates diplomatic crisis USA controversial speech
