Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today joined Pacific and regional leaders to celebrate Vanuatu’s historic 46th Independence Anniversary.
Prime Minister Marape stood alongside Vanuatu Prime Minister Hon. Jotham Napat, His Excellency President Dr. Jose Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste, and the President of the Republic of Vanuatu, His Excellency Nikenike Vurobaravu, to commemorate the milestone event.
The celebrations took place at a vibrant Independence Park in Port Vila, which was packed to capacity with men, women, and children proudly dressed in national colours and traditional island attire.
The official program commenced at 8:30 AM with the synchronized arrival of the four VIP dignitaries, who were escorted to the grandstand to join local officials, diplomats, and international guests.
The morning’s proceedings featured a spectacular military parade and the formal trooping of the colors.
In a moving ceremony, the military marched the national flag into the arena, where it was hoisted high as a children’s choir led the stadium in a stirring rendition of Vanuatu’s national anthem, “Yumi, Yumi, Yumi”.
Following the flag raising, Prime Minister Jotham Napat delivered an hour- long, comprehensive national address before the VIP dignitaries were driven out at the conclusion of the morning segment.
The deep and enduring historical bond between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu remained a core focus of the celebration. During the event, the Master of Ceremonies recounted the history of 1980, emphasizing the crucial hand PNG played in securing Vanuatu’s freedom from colonial rule.
In his official national address, Prime Minister Napat extended his country’s profound gratitude to Papua New Guinea for its foundational and ongoing support.
“Our relationship with Papua New Guinea is a relationship between a Melanesian partner and sister,” Prime Minister Napat stated.
“We remember with gratitude the unconditional intervention during the early days of our Independence, and now a longstanding relationship through the Kumul Highway here in the capital. Our friendship is a symbol of what Melanesian solidarity can achieve.”
Following the public ceremony, President Nikenike Vurobaravu hosted an official lunch reception at the State Residence, during which eminent nationals and development partners were formally recognized for their contributions to nation-building.
In a significant moment of regional appreciation, Prime Minister Marape was presented with an award acknowledging PNG’s long-term partnership. Governor Byron Chan was also presented with an award honoring his father, Sir Julius Chan, for his historic and decisive role in assisting Vanuatu during its in- dependence struggle in 1980.
Prime Minister Marape himself had highlighted the special bond between PNG and Vanuatu when he spoke at the welcome dinner on Wednesday evening after shortly after his arrival.
“Forty-six years ago, a courageous contingent of the PNG Defence Force left Port Moresby to help restore peace, laying the very foundation for Vanuatu’s independence on 30 July 1980,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Since that pivotal moment, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu have remained inseparable brothers. We are deeply honored to stand with you on this momentous milestone as you march toward your golden jubilee in four years’ time.”
Today’s celebratory events will culminate tonight with an official Independence Anniversary Ball hosted by Prime Minister Jotham Napat.
Tomorrow, Friday, Prime Minister Marape will convene high-level bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Napat and President Ramos-Horta to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties.
PM Marape will also officiate at the groundbreaking ceremony of the PNG chancery on Friday afternoon, for which land has been donated by the Vanautu Government. PNG is reciprocating with a piece of land in Port Moresby for the construction of the Vanuatu mission building.
The Prime Minister and his delegation will observe Sabbath worship at a local church on Saturday before departing Port Vila.