Prime Minister Hon. James Marape

As Papua New Guinea approaches 2025, the year marking 50 years of independence, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape issued a heartfelt message to the nation, urging every citizen to unite and work together for the betterment of the country.

‘2025 is a monumental year for our country, not just because we are celebrating our Golden Jubilee, but because it offers us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come and to chart a clear path forward,’ Prime Minister Marape said.

‘While the government has the biggest role to play, I want to remind every citizen, from the youngest child to the oldest elder, that we all have a part to contribute to our nation’s progress.’

Acknowledging the challenges Papua New Guinea faces, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in the country’s resilience and unity. ‘Our country’s challenges remain significant, but we can overcome them if we work together. Let us set aside our differences, respect each other, and coexist peacefully. By God’s grace, we have maintained our unity so far, and I believe we can continue to rise above any challenge if we remain united.’

Prime Minister Marape highlighted the importance of 2025 not just as a year of celebration but as a time for national renewal and forward planning. ‘We will engage our entire nation—government agencies, schools, institutions, and communities—to participate in this significant moment. Together, we will revisit the last 50 years, evaluate the first 15 years of Vision 2050, and set concrete milestones for the next 20 years as we strive for industrialisation and sustainable growth.’

The Prime Minister emphasised the need for action and cooperation, calling on citizens to work alongside leaders at all levels. ‘I appeal to every Papua New Guinean: cooperate with your members, your governors, and your leaders. Criticise constructively, but always with solutions. Let’s leave politics aside and focus on taking our country forward. The future of our nation depends on our collective effort.’

As part of the Jubilee celebrations, Prime Minister Marape shared plans to host significant events that will attract leaders from across the Pacific and beyond. ‘We will welcome leaders from Pacific Island nations, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, China, Rwanda, and other parts of the world to join us in celebrating this historic milestone. It will be a moment of pride for Papua New Guinea as we showcase our strength, unity, and determination to progress.’

The Prime Minister concluded with a powerful appeal to citizens to seize this historic moment. ‘This is our generation’s time to live through the 50th anniversary of our nation’s independence. Let’s not waste this moment or take it for granted. Let’s contribute where we can so that every child in Papua New Guinea can find prosperity in this country. Let’s ensure that no place is left behind and that we all grow together into a brighter future beyond our 50th anniversary.’

Editor’s Note: This speech and photograph are taken from the website of the PNG Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council, published on 31 December 2024. Available online HERE.   

Prime Minister James Marape extended his message to the government and people of Australia on Australia Day, 26 January 2025, reflecting on the enduring relationship between Papua New Guinea and its longstanding partner in the region.

‘As Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of independence this year, we pause to acknowledge Australia’s historic role in our nation’s journey,’ said Prime Minister Marape.

‘From the early days of nation-building to the establishment of critical institutions, Australia has stood with us—not only as a neighbour but as a steadfast friend and partner.’

The Prime Minister highlighted Australia’s significant contributions during the pre-independence period, including investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and governance, which laid the foundation for PNG’s emergence as a sovereign nation.

He also paid tribute to the collaboration between leaders such as Gough Whitlam and Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, whose shared vision ensured a peaceful transition to independence in 1975.

Prime Minister Marape also honoured the contributions of kiaps—Australian patrol officers who served in some of PNG’s most remote and challenging regions.

‘These men were more than administrators; they were builders, educators, and peacemakers. Their efforts remain a lasting legacy of the partnership between our two nations,’ he said.

He emphasised that the PNG-Australia partnership has continued to grow stronger over the past five decades, evolving to address the challenges and opportunities of the modern era.

One recent milestone is the Bilateral Security Agreement, signed in December 2023, which formalises co-operation between the two countries in areas such as defence, policing, cybersecurity, and maritime security.

‘This agreement demonstrates our shared commitment to safeguarding regional stability while respecting PNG’s sovereignty,’ noted Prime Minister Marape.

The Prime Minister also described PNG’s upcoming inclusion in the National Rugby League (NRL), supported by the Australian government, as ‘a historic moment for PNG that not only celebrates our sporting talent but also strengthens cultural and personal connections between our peoples.’

He reiterated Australia’s role as PNG’s largest trading partner and its ongoing support in key areas such as infrastructure, climate resilience, and education.

He highlighted Australia’s contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccine distribution and medical support, as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two nations.

‘Australia has helped us build capacity through long-term initiatives such as scholarships and technical training, empowering Papua New Guineans to contribute meaningfully to our national development,’ Prime Minister Marape said.

As PNG celebrates its golden jubilee of independence, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Australia.

‘Our relationship is built on shared values of democracy, freedom, and equality. Together, we can continue to build a safer, more prosperous, and inclusive Pacific for future generations,’ he added.

On this Australia Day, Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude to Australia for its unwavering friendship and support.

‘Happy Australia Day. May the next 50 years bring even greater achievements for our peoples and our region,’ he concluded.

Source: The National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), Papua New Guinea’s national public broadcaster.

PM Marape meeting Australian Parliamentarians