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Luxon announces trip to Papua New Guinea on 50th anniversary of bilateral relations

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced plans to travel to Papua New Guinea this week to celebrate half a century of that country's independence. The trip to the capital Port Moresby today also commemorates 50 years of bilateral relations, which started before Papua New Guinea was officially independent, with New Zealand one of the first to welcome the new state. New Zealand has spent $135 million in development funding there for the three years to 2027, focused primarily on health including the construction of a centre for eye health at Port Moresby General Hospital in partnership with the Fred Hollows Foundation. A $10m contribution is also going towards childhood vaccinations through the Accelerated Immunisation and Health Systems Strengthening Programme. Luxon said he is committed to partnership with Papua New Guinea for another 50 years. "I look forward to seeing my friend Prime Minister [James] Marape. New Zealand was among the first countries to welcome Papua New Guinea into the community of nations in 1975. We've been close partners ever since, with Prime Minister Marape and I committed to building our partnership for the next 50 years," he said. "New Zealand and Papua New Guinea are more than neighbours: We are partners in shaping the future of our home region, the Pacific. As the largest and most populated Pacific Island country, Papua New Guinea is an important player in the Pacific family." The Defence Force last month also announced it would be sending Army gunners from 16th Field Regiment to Papua New Guinea to help with mortar training, including a live fire exercise. The PNG Defence Force will in return provide jungle training to the gunners. The Prime Minister's delegation departs New Zealand on Monday, 4 August, returning Wednesday, 6 August. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.