TKATCHENKO ANNOUNCES 50TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY EVENTS
By Naomi TAKOMA
PAPUA New Guinea is preparing for its 50th Independence Anniversary with a packed schedule for national and international events, beginning on September 3rd.
Foreign Affairs and National Events Minister Justin Tkatchenko has confirmed that all preparations are progressing well.
The celebration will kick off with a Military Week from September 3rd to 10th whereby Military forces from across the Pacific and allied countries will take part in air shows, naval ship tours, and a Royal Military Tattoo featuring bands from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Solomon Islands.
On Saturday, September 13th, a major public concert will be staged at Sir John Guise Stadium. The concert will feature top Papua New Guinean and international artists to mark the nation’s golden jubilee.
On September 14th, His Royal Highness will arrive for the official Royal Tour. The following day, on the 15th, leaders from the United States, China, Australia, Indonesia, and Pacific Island nations will arrive to attend a state dinner at APEC Haus.
September 16, Independence Day, will feature several key events: the flag-raising ceremony at Independence Hill, the official opening of the Supreme and National Court, the tripping of the colours at Murray Barracks, and a reenactment of the 1975 Independence ceremony at Hubert Murray Stadium.
Celebrations will conclude with a grand finale at Sir John Guise Stadium. This includes a theatrical presentation of PNG’s history and a fireworks display.
Minister Tkatchenko confirmed that security will be a top priority. Police, defence forces, and community wardens will be deployed to ensure safety at all venues.
Over 14 world leaders are expected to attend, including the President of Indonesia and the Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand. The New Zealand Prime Minister is scheduled to make an early state visit on August 4.
The government has allocated K50 million for the national celebrations, and each district is permitted to use K1 million from their DSIP funds for local events.
Minister Tkatchenko says the 50th anniversary is a time of national reflection and unity, and he encourages everyone to participate responsibly in the events.
More updates and full event schedules will be shared in the coming weeks.
