Papua New Guinea and Republic of Vanuatu have broken ground for a new PNG Chancery in Port Vila, marking a new chapter in the two Melanesian nations’ long-standing relationship.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held last week (Friday, July 31), a day after Vanuatu celebrated its 46th Independence anniversary.
It follows high-level bilateral talks between PNG Prime Minister James Marape and his Vanuatu counterpart Jotham Napat.
The new mission will be built on land donated by the Vanuatu Government, ending years of diplomatic efforts by PNG to establish a permanent mission in Port Vila.
The event also highlighted PNG’s historic role in securing Vanuatu’s independence in 1980, when the PNG Defence Force’s “Kumul Force” was deployed under the leadership of then Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan to restore peace during a secessionist uprising.
The operation helped pave the way for Vanuatu’s independence on July 30, 1980.
Prime Minister Napat described the ceremony as a symbol of the enduring bond between the two countries.
“This moment truly reflects the enduring spirit of Melanesia and the deep history that weave our two countries together,” he said.
“Until today, Vanuatu has never given anything tangible to express its gratitude, offering only our words of thanks.”
“This donated land is a small symbol compared to the immense gratitude the people of Vanuatu hold in our hearts for the life-saving help PNG provided to secure our independence.”
He also announced a commitment of 100 million Vatu to support construction of the PNG Chancery.
“It is a modest contribution when measured against what PNG sacrificed for Vanuatu in our hour of need,” he said.
PM Marape thanked the Vanuatu Government and its people for the gesture.
“We are honored that right after your 46th Independence anniversary celebrations, you have gifted us this prime land, and more importantly, your heart in this gesture,” he said.
“Your Cabinet has made a definitive decision to grant us this premier space, and I assure you we will not let your efforts down.”
PM Marape said the new chancery would strengthen PNG’s diplomatic presence in the Pacific and reinforce ties with Vanuatu.
“Vanuatu stands right at the strategic heart of Melanesia and the wider Pacific. Through this mission, we will ensure we remain tightly knit as a family,” he said.
He also praised Vanuatu’s international leadership on climate change and pledged PNG’s continued support in areas where Vanuatu has taken the lead.
Looking ahead to Vanuatu’s 50th Independence anniversary in 2030, PM Marape announced plans to support several joint development initiatives.
These include upgrading Port Vila’s Kumul Highway, which was named in honour of the PNGDF Kumul Force.
“We will stand with you, contributing policy support toward political stability and assist your economic growth across vital sectors like fisheries, agriculture and tourism,” he said.
“There is good synergy between our two administrations, and I am happy that we will finally have our own dedicated base here.”
PM Marape also confirmed PNG would reciprocate by providing land in Port Moresby for Vanuatu to build its own chancery.
He said PNG’s Minister for Works would meet Vanuatu’s infrastructure officials in the coming months to begin planning the Kumul Highway upgrade.
“We are committed to supporting you this year, next year and the years to follow, ensuring the Kumul Highway receives a world-class facelift in preparation for your historic 50th anniversary in 2030,” PM Marape said.
The new chancery is expected to strengthen economic, political and cultural cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu while reinforcing Melanesian solidarity.