The President of France, H.E Emmanuel Macron will be in the country towards the end of this week on his first official visit to the Pacific, after visiting Vanuatu tomorrow. Prime Minister (PM) James Marape expressed profound enthusiasm for the upcoming visit of President Macron to Papua New Guinea (PNG), considering it a significant milestone in the nation's global engagement. Scheduled to arrive in Port Moresby on Thursday, July 27th, President Macron's visit marks the first time a French president has visited an independent country in the Pacific, showcasing Papua New Guinea's growing connectivity with the world. "This historic visit by President Macron exemplifies the profound connectivity that Papua New Guinea, under my leadership, is forging with the international community," Prime Minister Marape stated. "In today's interconnected virtual realm of commerce, real-time trade and foreign relations, the visit by the esteemed French president bodes exceedingly well for PNG. We eagerly anticipate strengthening our ties with this influential G7 economy." This meeting follows a previous encounter between President Macron and Prime Minister Marape earlier this year in Gabon, Central Africa, during the 'One-Forest' Summit. The forthcoming visit further cements the amicable relations between the two leaders and enhances bilateral cooperation. In recent months, PM Marape has had fruitful discussions with several world leaders, demonstrating Papua New Guinea's growing prominence on the global stage. Notably, the one-day State visit of Indonesia's President, H.E. Joko Widodo, resulted in tangible benefits, including the establishment of direct flights between Port Moresby and Bali. Similarly, discussions with the President of the Republic of Korea, H.E. Yoon Suk Yeol, during the Korea-Pacific Islands Summit, fostered constructive engagements and cooperation between the nations. PNG also hosted esteemed leaders such as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US Secretary of State H.E. Antony Blinken, and New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, further strengthening ties and fostering positive developments. Reflecting on these milestones, Marape expressed his commitment to advancing bilateral relations and addressing critical issues of mutual concern with visiting dignitaries. “In anticipation of President Macron's visit, Papua New Guinea stands ready to engage in productive dialogues and explore new avenues of cooperation with France. The visit bears the potential to further elevate Papua New Guinea's global presence and unlock new opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity,” Marape said. “As President Macron's historic visit to Papua New Guinea approaches, the nation eagerly anticipates the strengthening of ties and the forging of enduring partnerships with France and the international community.”