Prime Minister James Marape reflected on the country’s journey at the 50th Independence Anniversary Prime Minister’s Dinner on Monday 15th September 2025.
Speaking at the APEC Haus, PM Marape acknowledged and reflected on Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) drive since 1975, describing it as one of unity, democracy, and endurance against the odds.
He reminded guests of the historic moment of Independence when the Australian flag was lowered for the final time, noting the critical role Australia played in PNG’s transition.
“Exactly fifty years to this day, it was a Tuesday evening, 15 September 1975, when the Australian flag was lowered for the last time.”
The Prime Minister highlighted the unique identity of Papua New Guinea, a country with over 800 languages and 1, 000 tribes found in 462, 840 square kilometres of land.
He stressed that despite this diversity; PNG has remained united.
“Fifty years on, we have lived under one constitution, 17 governments were formed, not by the barrel of a gun, but through the democratic processes on the floor of Parliament.”
He also reminded delegates of PNG’s ancient heritage, pointing to archaeological evidence of agriculture in the Highlands dating back 10,000 years, underlining PNG’s place in global history.
“We host the second longest agriculture site on the face of planet Earth, settlement and people that is ancient.”
Looking to the future, Marape urged resilience and continued support for national progress, reaffirming his belief that PNG would endure beyond his own leadership.
“Do not give up on our country. It was never easy right from the start, and it is not going to be easy moving forward.”
Furthermore, he concluded his remarks by honouring the founding generation of leaders who made Independence possible.
“May long live the spirit, the memory of our late founding father, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and his generation, as well as Australia’s former Prime Minister, Gough Whitlam and his generation from across the Torres Strait that constructed this country.”
1 Comment
Pingback: dlvr.it