The United States was among the many countries that offered its congratulatory messages to Papua New Guinea on its 50 years of Independence. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, visited Port Moresby to commemorate this historic milestone and reaffirm the strong relationship between the United States and Papua New Guinea. Deputy Secretary Landau, during the visit, emphasized the United States’ commitment to strengthening economic ties, improving infrastructure development, and deepening defense cooperation with PNG. Admiral Paparo spoke on the strategic importance of PNG in the Indo-Pacific and the shared values that underpin the partnership between the two nations. On September 15th, Prime Minister James Marape and the Deputy Secretary signed a Framework for Strategic Cooperation, formalizing mutual priorities for the future of our bilateral relationship. The Framework encompasses economic, commercial and digital collaboration, as well as critical minerals and infrastructure development. At the same time, the framework reaffirms existing mechanisms, like the Strategic Partnership Dialogue and the 2023 Defense Cooperation Agreement. Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Independence, the delegation joined the Prime Minister and other senior officials at the official flag-raising ceremony, U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Ann Marie Yastishock, spoke highly of the moment 50 years ago when the PNG flag was raised for the first time. “Papua New Guinea’s journey over the past 50 years has been remarkable, and the United States is honored to have been a steadfast partner from the very beginning.” “Together, we will continue to build on our shared values and work toward a prosperous future for the people of Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region.” While in PNG, Deputy Secretary Landau and Admiral Paparo participated in the U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Roundtable, with Ambassador Yastishock moderating the discussions. The Roundtable engaged leaders from across the Pacific to discuss the United States’ commitment to the region and shared priorities. Deputy Secretary Landau described U.S Presence in the Pacific. “U.S. engagement in the Pacific is broad.” “From unexploded ordnance remediation programs in Papua New Guinea and beyond, to recent capacity building, infrastructure, and security programs across the region.” The visit also featured significant events, including the groundbreaking of DGCI’s $498 million U.S.-funded fuel storage facility, made possible through the 2023 Defense Cooperation Agreement. These efforts highlight the United States' ongoing commitment to supporting PNG's economic development, resilience, and regional security. As Papua New Guinea celebrates this historic milestone, the United States looks forward to strengthening its partnership and furthering shared objectives for peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region.