US Secretary of State John Kerry congratulates PNG

WORLD and business leaders have sent congratulatory messages for the 39th Independence Day which Papua New Guinea celebrated yesterday. US Secretary of State John Kerry congratulated PNG, saying that both countries shared a history of close partnership rooted in their commitment to democratic values and traditions.

"On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States of America, I send my warmest wishes to the people of Papua New Guinea on the 39th anniversary of your independence on September 16th," Mr Kerry said.

"The United States and Papua New Guinea share a history of close partnership rooted in our commitment to democratic values and traditions. We hope to strengtheour relationship in the future through continued promotion of open and transparent governance and cooperation on issues of mutual concern like climate change and natural resource management," he said.

"As you celebrate your independence day, know that the United States remains a partner and friend to your country. We wish you peace and prosperity in the years to come."

Australia, PNG’s former colonial master and closest neighbour, expressed its best wishes. Australian High Commissioner Deborah Stokes reiterated that the relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea was deep and enduring.

"It is borne of history and geography and covers the full range of interests with close links between the governments, businesses and peoples of our two countries," she said.

"The visits to Papua New Guinea this year by the Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott and the Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop have reaffirmed the close friendship between our two countries," Ms Stokes said.

"Australia welcomes Papua New Guinea’s contribution to the Pacific region, including its leadership in the Pacific Islands Forum and other regional mechanisms. Papua New Guinea’s hosting of APEC in 2018 will highlight its growing economic importance.

"Australia appreciates Papua New Guinea’s strong leadership in combating people smuggling in the region, including through implementation of the Regional Resettlement Arrangement.

"Through our aid program, we are proud to work alongside Papua New Guinea to create opportunities for private sector-led economic growth and to strengthen health, education and law and justice for the people of Papua New Guinea. "I convey my best wishes to the people of Papua New Guinea on their Independence Day," she said.

PNG Today / Post Courier