Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has expressed his deep gratitude to the unprecedented number of international leaders, delegations, and diplomatic partners who travelled to Papua New Guinea to share in the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

He said the overwhelming support demonstrated Papua New Guinea’s growing role as a trusted friend, a Pacific leader, and a nation of global significance.

“Never before in our history have so many foreign leaders and dignitaries gathered with us to celebrate our Independence. This was the biggest number of international delegates since 1975, and I thank each and every one of our partners for standing with Papua New Guinea as we marked this historic milestone,” Prime Minister Marape said.

The Prime Minister highlighted the presence of United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who spent four days in Port Moresby, as a symbol of PNG’s rising international profile.

“The Secretary-General’s extended stay was a recognition of PNG’s unique place in the world. We are not a military power, but we are a soft power nation — a great forest country and a great ocean country. Our forests and oceans are massive carbon sinks critical to global climate solutions. The world is now realising that Papua New Guinea matters,” he said.

Strengthening Global Partnerships

Prime Minister Marape noted that leaders from across the Pacific, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and other regions attended the Golden Jubilee celebrations, underscoring PNG’s strong and diverse network of friendships.

He said these partnerships are not only political, but also economic and people-centred.

•           Trade and Markets: New agreements are opening access for PNG products — including agriculture, fisheries, and forestry — to markets in China, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.

•           Labour Mobility: Australia and New Zealand are expanding seasonal and permanent labour schemes for Papua New Guineans, with reciprocal visa arrangements being advanced.

•           Education and Skills: Partnerships are raising education standards so PNG’s qualifications are recognised abroad, ensuring opportunities for students and young workers.

“Foreign relations for me are not just about diplomacy. At their heart must be commerce and trade. Every nation we engage with must also be a partner in growing our economy and opening doors for our people,” the Prime Minister said.

Among the highlights of the Golden Jubilee was the address of His Majesty King Charles III, who delivered a special address recalling his late mother Queen Elizabeth II’s role in PNG’s independence and reaffirming the United Kingdom’s enduring friendship with Papua New Guinea.

Also addressing the nation was His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, who represented the continuity of the Crown’s relationship with PNG, paying tribute to the resilience of Papua New Guineans and expressing hope for an even stronger partnership in the next 50 years.

A Future Built on Shared Values

Prime Minister Marape said the presence of so many leaders at PNG’s 50th Anniversary was proof that the world views Papua New Guinea as a stable, democratic, and values-based nation.

“We are a Melanesian, Pacific, and Christian country. Our values of tolerance, forgiveness, sharing, and caring are our true wealth. These values have carried us through the last 50 years, and with the support of our partners, they will carry us into the next 50,” he said.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to use international goodwill to strengthen domestic reforms in education, health, law and justice, and infrastructure.

Closing Message

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I thank all our international friends who stood with us during our Golden Jubilee. Your presence is a mark of friendship and respect. It shows that the world sees Papua New Guinea, not just as a small Pacific nation, but as a partner of global significance.

“The moving addresses from His Majesty King Charles III and His Royal Highness Prince Edward reminded us of our shared history, and more importantly, our shared future. Together, we will build a future of prosperity, peace, and shared progress,” Prime Minister Marape concluded.