Prime Minister James Marape received a courtesy call from the United Kingdom’s Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West at Melanesian House in Waigani, in a meeting that underscored both countries’ determination to strengthen ties as Papua New Guinea marks 50 years of independence.
The talks came ahead of the upcoming state visit of the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, who will officiate the formal handover of the King’s Colours and regimental colours to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force. He will also preside over the opening of the new Court complex — a highlight of PNG’s golden jubilee celebrations.
Minister West’s trip also carries a practical agenda, with the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) — one on Development Cooperation and another on a Shiprider Agreement. The agreements add to a growing body of cooperation, including the recently concluded Status of Force Agreement.
“Papua New Guinea always values its relations with the United Kingdom, and we thank the UK government for elevating this relationship through these latest MOUs, as well as the recently-signed Status of Force Agreement (SOFA),” Prime Minister Marape said.
He welcomed Britain’s visible role in this anniversary year, noting the participation of UK Defence personnel in Military Week events. “Our ties keep on getting stronger as seen in the participation of the UK Defence personnel in the Military Week, the program that is part of our 50th Independence anniversary celebration. This also signifies a stronger working relationship between our two defence forces which paves the way for future cooperation in the security space.”
Marape also highlighted West’s involvement with UK-backed programmes on climate change, renewable energy, nature, and forest conservation during her Port Moresby stay.
“Papua New Guinea is similarly focused on Climate Change, Climate Action and Mitigation, as we host the third largest tropical rainforest in the world and up to 7 percent of the world’s biodiversity. PNG remains steadfast and is committed to fight for Climate Justice and financing as mitigation strategy for building resilience among our local communities,” he said.
The Prime Minister appealed to the minister to carry PNG’s message further. He asked that Britain amplify the Pacific’s voice in international forums, particularly on climate finance and justice, where small island states seek stronger partnerships.
Closing the meeting, Marape said PNG’s relationship with the UK was not just about the present but about future generations: “PNG’s commitment is to embrace and continue fostering good bilateral relations with the United Kingdom going into the next 50 years of PNG’s life as a sovereign nation.”
