NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER ARRIVES IN PNG

 New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon arrived in Port Moresby this evening at 6:15pm, where he was officially welcomed at Jacksons International Airport’s APEC terminal by a full ceremonial parade led by the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF).

Escorted by PNGDF Commander, Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, the Prime Minister was ushered through a formal guard of honor, marking the significance of his first official visit to Papua New Guinea since assuming office.

A military band played the Papua New Guinea national anthem, setting a respectful and dignified tone for what is expected to be a key diplomatic engagement between the two Pacific nations.

Among the dignitaries present to receive the New Zealand leader were Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, and Police Commissioner David Manning alongside senior officers of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and members of the ceremonial guard.

Prime Minister Luxon was taken through the military parade three times—a protocol typically reserved for visiting heads of state—before departing for APEC House, where formal bilateral talks are scheduled during his stay.

“This visit signals the strength of our Pacific partnership,” said Foreign Minister Tkatchenko during the ceremony. “We are honored to receive Prime Minister Luxon and reaffirm our commitment to regional cooperation.”

Deputy Prime Minister Rosso, who accompanied Prime Minister Luxon throughout the ceremony, reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing shared priorities between the two governments.

The presence of Police Commissioner David Manning and the PNGDF at full protocol highlighted the ceremonial importance and security significance of the visit.

Prime Minister Luxon is expected to engage in discussions around regional security, trade, and climate action, with a scheduled address to the Papua New Guinea National Parliament anticipated as a key highlight of his visit.

The evening’s official reception concluded with a final military march as Prime Minister Luxon departed the terminal for his official residence.