Prime Minister (PM) James Marape extends his warm congratulations to the government and people of Fiji as they celebrate their 54th Independence anniversary today. “On behalf of the government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I convey our heartiest commendations to Fiji for 54 years of democracy and congratulate them on their Independence anniversary, which is being celebrated this Thursday, 10 October 2024," Prime Minister Marape said. “Fiji gained Independence in 1970, and we acknowledge the role early Fijian leadership played in contributing to our own self-determination," the Prime Minister explained. “Fiji’s five-year nationhood earlier to PNG and its near-century experience of living under British administration gave latitude to our Founding Father, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, to call on the counsel of first prime minister, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, in our journey to Independence and beyond." "Sir Michael looked up to Sir Kamisese the way a younger brother looks to an older one, prompted by the fact that there existed a 16-year age gap between the two leaders." "At the time of PNG’s Independence in 1975, Sir Michael was 39 and Ratu Mara was 55." “Ratu Mara was instrumental in the inspiration that Sir Michael drew from to also carve out his own country for Independence. This demonstrates the bond established by both our countries even at birth." “To this day, Fiji continues to nurture this bond with Papua New Guinea, and vice versa, through our diplomatic government-to-government ties, in business, and in the relationships our two people continue to share amongst each other." "This is in a true spirit of Melanesian brotherhood we call ‘family.’" “On this special occasion, I offer our congratulations to Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka; the Government; and all the beautiful People of the Republic of Fiji." “Papua New Guinea commits to stand by Fiji and looks forward to continuing this wonderful partnership into the future as we strive to build a better, stronger and more resilient Blue Pacific Continent."