PNG Prime Minister Peter O’Neill meets HM Queen Elizabeth

Papua New Guinea  Prime Minister, Hon. Peter O'Neill CMG MP, had a private audience with Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, at Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom on June 16.

The audience took place in what is known as the "White Room" in the castle and afforded the Queen and the Prime Minister an opportunity to share perspectives of significance for Papua New Guinea and the Commonwealth.

The Prime Minister said it is not protocol to discuss the specific details of the audience with Her Majesty, but he said he was again impressed the Queen's depth of knowledge and fondness for Papua New Guinea. "Her Majesty is very familiar with the history as well as current developments in Papua New Guinea," PM O'Neill said.

"The Queen has visited Papua New Guinea in the past, many years ago she sailed to the country on the Royal Yacht Britannia.

"I hope that Her Majesty does have the opportunity to travel to Papua New Guinea again before long.

"Though we recognise that there are a number of countries that would also appreciate visits and she is not as able to travel as often as she did in the past."

The Prime Minister said the people of Papua New Guinea have a special place in their hearts for the Queen and the Royal Family.

"Most people have spent their whole lives only knowing one Monarch and they have great respect.

"I appreciated Her Majesty affording me time to meet with her on this visit to the United Kingdom."

The Prime Minister also met with His Royal Highness, the Duke of York, Prince Andrew while at Windsor Castle.

He said they discussed regional issues of interest, and Papua New Guinea's hosting of major events including the Pacific Games as well as the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders' meeting immediately before Independence celebrations.

"Price Andrew has visited Papua New Guinea several times in the past and was with us for the opening the then South Pacific Games in 1991.

"He has fond memories of his visits to Papua New Guinea and he has travelled around our country.

"The Duke of York also was also well aware of a number of regional issues that are of importance to Papua New Guinea and the Commonwealth.

"I look forward to furthering this discussion in the future."

Image credit: Images were only taken by the official photographer and can be obtained through the following link: http://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/queen-elizabeth-ii-receives-the-prime-minister-of-papua-new-news-photo/477312996

Government Media Release