SYDNEY, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) -- Police in Papua New Guinea have hit the streets of the capital on Wednesday, for a major "clean up" operation in the lead up to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders meeting in November.
While usually known for sweeping up crime, officers in Port Moresby will be tasked with helping citizens keep the city spotless and tidy over the coming months before the lense of the world's press focuses squarely on the tropical South Pacific nation.
Speaking to local media on Wednesday, National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Perou N'rdanou said the summit will be a "great benefit" to the country and that residents should try their best to show Port Moresby in the best possible light.
"By hosting APEC, Papua New Guinea will get a lot of exposure internationally for people who didn't know much about the country," he said.
"People will better understand the sorts of trade, tourism and investment opportunities that exist here."
"But it all comes back to citizens to make it happen," he added.
With a number of community organizations also involved in the government's clean up task force, PNG woman's community service foundation youth coordinator Maxwell Bill explained, the groups will work with police to raise awareness about the program, urging citizens to do all they can to keep the capital looking sharp.
"This is our home, this is our city and we have to work together to make it happen for the future of our little ones," Bill said.