NCDC INK PARTNERSHIP WITH LONG BEACH

By Naomi TAKOMA
In a historic ceremony held today at Port Moresby’s City Hall, the capital of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby and City of Long Beach, California,in the US officially became sister cities, marking the start of a dynamic new relationship between the two cities.
The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was a momentous occasion that was attended by key figures from both nations, including the Governor of the National Capital District (NCD), Honorable Powes Pakop, Mr. Jeff Williams, Director of Community Engagement for Long Beach, Mr. Carlo Capua, Chairman-elect of the Board of Sister Cities International, Mr. Andy Covington from the U.S. Embassy, and a host of distinguished guests.
This partnership is more than symbolic; it reflects the shared ambitions of both cities to foster a future of mutual cooperation. For Port Moresby, this sister city relationship with Long Beach represents a significant step toward enhancing cultural exchange, educational opportunities, and economic collaboration.
Long Beach joins an expanding network of cities around the world that Port Moresby has established connections with, a network that will support the capital’s growth and global engagement.
Governor Powes Pakop of NCD was quick to emphasize the importance of the partnership, addressing the attendees with great optimism. “This agreement symbolizes a bond of trust and confidence,” he said.
“It provides opportunities for growth, collaboration, and mutual understanding in areas like urban planning, education, and culture.” Governor Pakop also highlighted how Port Moresby, with its rich cultural diversity and growing infrastructure, stands to benefit greatly from this new alliance.
The history of U.S.-Papua New Guinea relations was not forgotten during the ceremony. Mr. Carlo Capua, Chairman-elect of Sister Cities International, reflected on the significance of the partnership, noting that it’s not just a product of recent diplomatic efforts but also a continuation of the deep historical ties that have existed between the two nations since World War II. Capua, who first visited Papua New Guinea in 2001, shared a personal connection to the country, recounting how his experiences there left a lasting impression on him.
“This is not a coincidence; it is destiny,” Capua stated, drawing a parallel to the efforts of the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels during the war, who helped Allied forces in Papua New Guinea. “This bond was forged during a time of great need, and today we are deepening that connection.”
Mr. Andy Covington, Charge d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Papua New Guinea, also spoke passionately about the significance of the sister city agreement. He emphasized that diplomacy often works best when it transcends formal government channels and reaches the people. “Diplomacy isn’t just about governments negotiating,” he explained.
“It’s about creating spaces for people to connect, share ideas, and collaborate on shared values. This partnership between Long Beach and Port Moresby is a perfect example of that.”
For Jeff Williams, Director of Community Engagement at Long Beach, this trip to Papua New Guinea has been a revelation. He expressed his admiration for the similarities between the two cities, particularly their shared status as port cities and their focus on education, tourism, and urban development.
“It’s been an incredible week,” Williams remarked. “Port Moresby has so much to offer, and I believe Long Beach has a lot to learn from this vibrant city.”
Governor Pakop also invited Long Beach officials to experience Port Moresby’s rich cultural heritage firsthand. He proposed a symbolic trek along the Kokoda Trail, a historic site that played a pivotal role during World War II, as a way to honor the shared history between the two nations.
“The Kokoda Trail symbolizes the strength and resilience of our people,” he said. “It’s a journey that will bind our cities together, much like the relationship we are forging today.”
With the signing of the MOU, the two cities have committed to a future of collaboration and partnership. The event marks the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful relationship between Long Beach and Port Moresby, focused on shared prosperity, cultural exchange, and mutual respect.
As this new chapter unfolds, both cities are excited about the opportunities for cooperation that lie ahead, looking forward to building bridges between their people and creating lasting bonds that will benefit future generations.