Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele, joined regional and international dignitaries in Port Moresby for the Anniversary Dinner on the eve of Papua New Guineaโs 50th Independence celebrations, hosted by the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, at the iconic APEC Haus.
The dinner was held on Monday.
Prime Minister Manele was accompanied by Madam Manele, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, and the Solomon Islands High Commissioner to PNG, H.E. William Soaki.
Also in attendance were Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer and Lady Palmer, who joined the dinner in their capacity representing the Solomon Islands judiciary.
The evening was graced by the Chief Guest of Honour, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, the youngest brother of His Majesty King Charles III.
Speaking at the occasion, Prime Minister Marape reflected on PNGโs journey since independence and encouraged Pacific nations to remain resilient during challenging times.
โAs leader of one of the most diverse countries in the world, I understand the importance of unity and perseverance. Reaching 50 years of nationhood is a remarkable milestone,โ Prime Minister Marape said.
Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 languages and more than 1,000 distinct clans and ethnic groups, making it the most culturally and linguistically diverse country in the world.
The country gained independence from Australia on 16 September 1975, and this year marks 50 years since that historic achievement.
Prime Minister Marape recalled that it was on this day 50 years ago that the Australian flag was lowered for the last time, replaced by the national flag of Papua New Guinea.
He thanked Australia for its continuous support to Papua New Guinea since independence.
The dinner concluded with spectacular fireworks and a drone display over Port Moresby, celebrating PNGโs half-century of independence.
The theme for the countryโs 50th anniversary was โCELEBRATE OUR HISTORY, INSPIRE OUR FUTURE.โ
– OPMC
