Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today addressed the media at Melanesian Haus after a full day of bilateral and executive engagements with leaders and representatives from across the Pacific and Asia-Pacific region.
These meetings, held on the sidelines of Papua New Guinea’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, underscored the country’s growing role and recognition in the global community as it prepares to mark 50 years of Independence tomorrow – Tuesday, 16 September, 2025.
Reflecting on the historic journey since 1975, Prime Minister Marape paid tribute to the founding fathers and mothers of the nation, describing them as “the greatest generation” who united the country under the banner of self-rule. He recalled the lowering of the Australian flag 50 years ago and the raising of the Papua New Guinea flag at Independence Hill, noting that such a moment “happens only once in a nation’s history and we are the privileged generation to commemorate it.”
The Prime Minister highlighted the presence of regional and international dignitaries in Port Moresby, including leaders and envoys from Australia, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Niue, the Cook Islands, Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, New Zealand, Indonesia, China, India, the United States, and the United Kingdom, among others. He described their participation as “a testimony that Papua New Guinea does not stand alone, but as part of a strong family of nations.”
Prime Minister Marape made special mention of the enduring bond between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, recalling how, in 1980, PNG’s Defence Force played a pivotal role in supporting Vanuatu’s independence. In recognition of this history, Vanuatu has gifted land in Port Vila for PNG to establish a High Commission – a gesture he described as “a symbol of lasting friendship and solidarity.”
As the nation reflects on its past, the Prime Minister also cast a vision for the future. He affirmed his
Government’s ambition for Papua New Guinea to build a stronger, more self-reliant economy:
By 2035, PNG aims to grow into a K300 billion economy, and by 2045, at 70 years of Independence, PNG aspires to transition from being a borrower to becoming a contributor to regional development institutions such as the Asian Development Bank.
Prime Minister Marape stressed the importance of unity, calling on citizens to put aside political, tribal, and social differences to embrace the national colours, anthem, and pledge. “Your country is more important than James Marape or any leader,” he said. “Wherever you are—whether in the villages, towns, islands, or mountains—find a way to contribute to your country’s future. The past cannot be changed, but the future can be built by all of us together.”
He also reiterated his Government’s commitment to strengthening national defence and security, growing employment opportunities, improving infrastructure, and addressing the challenges of law and order. “We must build a nation that is resilient, peaceful, and prosperous for our 10 million people and for generations to come,” he said.
In closing, Prime Minister Marape expressed gratitude to the media, international partners, and especially the people of Papua New Guinea for their contributions over the past five decades.
“Tomorrow, as our flag rises for the 50th time, let us recommit to our shared destiny as one people, one nation, and one country. The future of Papua New Guinea is in our hands.”