In the lead-up to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence, the United States reaffirmed its enduring partnership with the Pacific nation through a high-level visit by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) for East Asia and Pacific Affairs, Jonathan Fritz. PDAS Fritz visited PNG from August 30 to September 3, laying the groundwork for the upcoming visit by Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, who will lead the U.S. delegation to the country’s independence celebrations later this month. U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Ann Marie Yastishock, emphasized that PDAS Fritz’s visit underscores the broad and growing partnership between the U.S. and PNG. "PDAS Fritz’s visit highlights the depth and breadth of the U.S.-PNG partnership.” “From defense cooperation to economic investment and cultural exchange, our relationship continues to grow stronger as we work together toward a shared future.” “Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence is a moment to celebrate the progress we’ve made and the opportunities ahead." During his visit, PDAS Fritz met with Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko to discuss the ongoing bilateral relationship between the U.S and PNG. He also visited key U.S. investment sites, including PNG LNG in Caution Bay, the largest economic investment in PNG’s history. PDAS Fritz also viewed the future site of a K1.6 billion fuel storage facility to be constructed by DGCI Corporation, showcasing the growing U.S. commercial footprint in the country. Toward the end of his visit, PDAS Fritz engaged with students at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). The students, who aspire to be PNG’s future diplomats, policy makers, economists, and politicians, heard directly from him about U.S. foreign policy in the Pacific and discussed the U.S.-PNG relationship and careers in public service. The United States looks forward to celebrating 50 years of PNG’s independence and 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The U.S. remains committed to maintaining a strong bilateral relationship built on shared values and mutual respect.