Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has extended the warm congratulations of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea to the Government and people of Solomon Islands as they celebrate the 48th Anniversary of Independence today.
Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea proudly joins Solomon Islands in commemorating this important national milestone, describing the two nations as “Melanesian wantoks” whose friendship has been forged through shared history, common values and decades of close cooperation.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale, his Government and the people of Solomon Islands on this joyous occasion.
“Solomon Islands attained independence three years after Papua New Guinea, and ever since our two countries have walked side by side as sovereign Melanesian nations. We have stood together through times of challenge, times of celebration and times of nation-building.
“Our relationship goes beyond diplomacy. It is a relationship of family, culture, history and mutual respect. Solomon Islands is not just our neighbour; it is our Melanesian brother and sister.
“The people of Solomon Islands have stood with Papua New Guinea during many significant moments in our history, just as we proudly stand with them today. Last year, we celebrated Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary together, and today we join them in thought, in spirit and in friendship as they commemorate 48 years of democracy, freedom and nationhood.
“Our nations emerged as sovereign countries during the same generation, and together we continue to strengthen our place within our Blue Pacific Continent while advancing the aspirations of our people.”
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations under the PNG–Solomon Islands Strategic Partnership, noting that the framework established during Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s recent engagement with Papua New Guinea provides a strong foundation for expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest.
“We look forward to building upon our strategic partnership and translating our shared commitments into practical outcomes that benefit both our peoples.
“Papua New Guinean companies remain among the significant investors in Solomon Islands, and we welcome continued opportunities for partnership in mining, agriculture, fisheries and other productive sectors. We look forward to greater economic cooperation that creates jobs, adds value to our natural resources and ensures our people receive greater and fairer benefits from the wealth God has blessed our nations with.
“This vision is consistent with Papua New Guinea’s own development agenda of ensuring that our natural resources deliver lasting prosperity for our citizens.”
Prime Minister Marape also paid tribute to the past and present leaders of both countries who have nurtured one of the Pacific’s closest bilateral relationships.
“I acknowledge with gratitude the leaders of Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, past and present, who have strengthened this enduring friendship over the decades. Together we have advanced Melanesian solidarity and contributed to peace, stability and development across our region.”
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea eagerly anticipates joining Solomon Islands in celebrating its Golden Jubilee of Independence in 2028.
“As you celebrate 48 years of independence today, we look forward to standing alongside you once again in two years’ time as you mark your 50th Independence Anniversary.
“Papua New Guinea remains committed to walking every step of that journey with Solomon Islands—as neighbours, partners, Melanesian wantoks and members of our Blue Pacific family.
“Congratulations once again to Prime Minister Matthew Wale, your Government and all the people of Solomon Islands. May God continue to bless Solomon Islands with peace, unity and prosperity.”