PNG Prime Minister James Marape has honored the enduring friendship between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu during the island nation’s 46th Independence Anniversary celebrations, reaffirming the deep Melanesian bond forged through PNG’s support during Vanuatu’s independence in 1980.
Joining Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat, President of Timor-Leste Dr Jose Ramos-Horta and Vanuatu President Nikenike Vurobaravu, PM Marape attended the official celebrations at Independence Park in Port Vila on Thursday.
Thousands of people dressed in national colors and traditional attire gathered for the event, which featured a military parade, trooping of the colors, the raising of Vanuatu’s national flag and the singing of the national anthem, Yumi, Yumi, Yumi.
Prime Minister Napat used his national address to acknowledge Papua New Guinea’s historic contribution to Vanuatu’s independence and the strong relationship that has continued over the past 46 years.
“Our relationship with Papua New Guinea is a relationship between a Melanesian partner and sister,” Prime Minister Napat said.
“We remember with gratitude the unconditional intervention during the early days of our Independence, and now a longstanding relationship through the Kumul Highway here in the capital. Our friendship is a symbol of what Melanesian solidarity can achieve.”
Following the ceremony, President Vurobaravu hosted an official luncheon at the State Residence, where PM Marape received an award recognizing Papua New Guinea’s long-standing partnership with Vanuatu.
Governor Byron Chan also received an award on behalf of his late father, Sir Julius Chan, in recognition of his decisive role in supporting Vanuatu during its independence struggle in 1980.
Speaking at a welcome dinner the previous evening, PM Marape reflected on PNG’s role in helping secure Vanuatu’s independence.
“Forty-six years ago, a courageous contingent of the PNG Defence Force left Port Moresby to help restore peace, laying the very foundation for Vanuatu’s independence on 30 July 1980,” he said.
“Since that pivotal moment, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu have remained inseparable brothers. We are deeply honoured to stand with you on this momentous milestone as you march toward your golden jubilee in four years’ time.”
The celebrations ended with an official Independence Anniversary Ball hosted by Prime Minister Napat.
On Friday, PM Marape held bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Napat and President Ramos-Horta to strengthen diplomatic and economic cooperation.
He also officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony for Papua New Guinea’s new chancery in Port Vila on land donated by the Vanuatu Government.
Papua New Guinea will reciprocate by providing land in Port Moresby for the construction of Vanuatu’s diplomatic mission.
PM Marape and his delegation attended Sabbath worship at a local church on Saturday before returning to the country.