Rielo was appointed Total's senior vice president for Asia Pacific this month and will be leading the advancement of the Papua LNG project.

 

"The Papua LNG project is the next major resources project for our nation and will deliver around 13,000 Papua New Guinean jobs in the construction phase alone," O'Neill said, adding that this would include around 10,000 working in production areas close to Port Moresby and 3000 working at the on-site areas.

 

"As energy prices are on an upward trajectory, and with longer term outlooks for the energy sector firming, it is clear that Total's unwavering confidence in the project is a sound investment.

 

"In the coming years we will see more families moving from France who will be living and participating in communities in Papua New Guinea, and we look forward to working with them.

 

"As part of its investment, Total is not only investing in skills and training, but is undertaking in social development projects that will help many people in our communities," O'Neill said.

 

Rielo joined Total in 1998 and has worked in Australia, Argentina and Africa.