By DALCY LULUA
As Papua New Guinea’s capital city begins a new chapter of international friendship, National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop has extended a heartfelt invitation to the people of Long Beach, California, to join him on the iconic Kokoda Trail.
Speaking during the official announcement of the sister-city agreement between Port Moresby and Long Beach today, Governor Parkop called for a delegation from the American city to experience the Kokoda Trail as a symbolic start to their new partnership.
“To walk the Kokoda Track is to walk through history, resilience, and the spirit of our people,” Parkop said. “It is my invitation to our brothers and sisters in Long Beach—let us begin our friendship not just with words on paper, but by walking together on sacred ground where courage and unity once defined a generation.”
The Kokoda Trail, which stretches over 96 kilometers through the rugged Owen Stanley Range, is famous for its historical significance during World War II and remains a powerful symbol of endurance and international camaraderie.
Mr Parkop said the shared journey would not only deepen the connection between the two cities but also allow delegates from Long Beach to see first-hand the natural beauty and cultural richness of Papua New Guinea.
“This trek is more than a physical challenge,” he added. “It’s a journey into our nation’s heart. It will be a fitting foundation for a partnership rooted in people, purpose, and shared growth.”
Governor Parkop is known for promoting health and unity through his “Walk for Life” initiative in Port Moresby and believes this Kokoda experience will be a meaningful extension of that message on the international stage.
As the two cities begin their collaboration, the Kokoda Trail promises to set a tone of unity, shared experience, and lasting friendship between the people of Port Moresby and Long Beach.