MINISTER for Foreign Affairs and National Events, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko, has described Pope Francis’ upcoming visit to Vanimo as unprecedented, marking the first time a Pope has toured the beautiful town of Vanimo in West Sepik Province.
Minister Tkatchenko explained that Pope Francis chose to visit Vanimo because of the exceptional work being done by clergy, priests, and Catholic Church workers in the area.
He added that the Pope is particularly impressed by an orchestra composed of Vanimo children who have been taught to play violins and other musical instruments, which has gained recognition from the Vatican.
“We look forward to that day trip to Vanimo for the Pope,” Tkatchenko remarked.
He also thanked the Australian government for assisting Papua New Guinea with transport, including aircraft to facilitate travel from Port Moresby to Vanimo and back.
Tkatchenko added that Pope Francis’ visit to Papua New Guinea will be an historic event, expected to draw thousands of people, especially during the mass and youth program at Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby.
During the Pope’s stay in the nation’s capital, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape will hold a special meeting with Pope Francis at the Korobosea Archdiocese in Port Moresby to discuss various important agendas for the nation.
Minister Tkatchenko noted that Pope Francis is visiting Papua New Guinea as a head of state, and therefore, the visit will be accorded the highest level of protocol, similar to that of the Governor-General.
“As a head of state, he comes as equal to our Governor-General. So, we keep the highest order of protocol in that regard,” Tkatchenko explained.
Upon Pope Francis’ arrival at the airport, he will be honored with a 21-gun salute as part of his welcome reception, along with ceremonial guards and military presence, adhering to the necessary state visit protocols.
