Australian PM Albanese to visit PNG for leaders dialogue

AUSTRALIAN Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says he will lead a delegation to Papua New Guinea next week (Dec 12-13).
“This will be my first visit to Papua New Guinea as Prime Minister and the first in-person leaders’ talks since 2019, when Prime Minister Marape visited Australia,” Albanese said in a statement yesterday.
“Australia and Papua New Guinea are close neighbours and even closer friends.
“Our deep ties are underpinned by a common history, shared values and continued collaboration.
“The strength of our modern relationship draws on bonds from our shared past, including those forged on the Kokoda Track 80 years ago — we will never forget the debt we owe the brave Papua New Guineans who walked alongside Australian soldiers in this campaign.
“We also have a shared vision for the future: a more prosperous, unified and secure region.”
Albanese said he looked forward to meeting with Prime Minister James Marape in Port Moresby and discussing Australia’s cooperation across trade, economic recovery, infrastructure, defence, policing and climate resilience.
The Australian High Commission said the visit came as both countries approached the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations following PNG’s independence in 1975.
Albanese will join his host, Marape, for the Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in Port Moresby.
In addition to visiting the national capital, Albanese will travel with Marape to the East Sepik capital of Wewak.
In Wewak, Albanese will visit the resting place of the founding prime minister of PNG, the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
He will also visit the Japanese Memorial Peace Park and Moem Barracks.