Prime Minister (PM) James Marape is set to significantly bolster the longstanding relationship between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia during his visit to Australia this week, which will include him addressing the Australian National Parliament.
As a guest of the Australian Government, his visit will commence on February 7th leading to a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties.
The PM will be accompanied by a delegation that will include former politicians Yano Belo, Nambuka Mara, the Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko, Minister for National Planning, Ano Pala, the Minister Assisting Prime Minister on Treasury, Ian Ling-Stuckey and Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu, because the PM’s itinerary is packed with significant engagements.
Upon his arrival in Canberra, Marape will be formally welcomed by Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, followed by a traditional ‘Welcome to Country Ceremony’, symbolizing the deep respect and connection between the two nations.
Highlighting the visit, on February 8th, the PM will receive a ceremonial reception at Australia, hosted by his counterpart Anthony Albanese. This will include a 19-gun salute, a guard of honour inspection, and the rendition of both nations’ national anthem by the Military College Band.
In a historic first for PNG-Australian relations since PNG’s independence 48 years ago, Marape will address the Australian Parliament, signifying the enduring partnership and mutual commitment to peace and prosperity in the Pacific Region.
Furthermore, the visit also include bilateral discussions with PM Albanese, an Annual Leader’s Dialogue, a meeting with the Leader of Opposition, Peter Dutton, and an engagement with the Australian Federal Police’s Forensics Facility to reinforce security cooperation.
To conclude the visit, PM Marape alongside his spouse Madam Rachel, will honour the shared history at the Australian War Memorial and meet with the Governor-General of Australia.
PM Marape and his delegation will returns to Port Moresby on Friday, February 09th.