PNG Extends Australia Day Best Wishes

Papua New Guinea  Prime Minister,  Peter O'Neill  has extended the country’s greetings to the people of Australia as they celebrate their national day on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Hon. Peter O'Neill said Papua New Guinea-Australia relations are in the best shape now than at any time in the 40 years of the relationship.

"I extend to all Australians, and especially to Australians living in Papua New Guinea, my best wishes, and those of the government, and all of our people, best wishes for Australia Day 2016," the Prime Minister said.

"The relationship continues to mature, constantly evolving and diversifying, in a way that is mutually beneficial to the peoples of both nations.

"It is underpinned by unique people-to-people association based on key elements of shared history, common democratic values, and a wide range of everyday links including sporting, educational, cultural and business and investment.

"At the government-to-government level, we enjoy a close dialogue and work in partnership.

“We have seen our bilateral co-operation arrangements evolve and and align more closely with our own development priorities that is delivering better outcomes for both our countries, and our peoples."

The Prime Minister said a key aspect of the relationship, which is often understated, is the contribution Papua New Guinean families make to the Australian education system with hundreds of families making significant sacrifices to give their sons and daughters school and higher education in Australia.

"The people-to-people association must never be taken for granted, and I am delighted it is being strengthened in areas such as education, sport and culture," he said.

"Australia remains the main source of industry and business investment in Papua New Guinea.

“Through their shareholdings, or their superannuation portfolios, hundreds of thousands - if not millions - of Australians are investors in our future.

"As Australians prepare to celebrate their national day, I thank them for their continued confidence in Papua New Guinea and our future.