By GEORGINA MICHAEL
Parliament House in Waigani will get a new wing to be funded by the Australian government.
Australian Prime Minister announced this during bilateral talks with his PNG counterpart, James Marape in Port Moresby this week.
Mr Albanese said the new wing will be Australia’s gift to commemorating PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
“I confirm that, Australia’s gift to PNG to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Independence is the new wing of the national parliament, importantly both wings will be elevated and if you look from above it will look like the Bird of Paradise,” Mr Albanese said.
“This gift recognizes the common understanding of the democratic principles that underpin the modern Australia-PNG relationship, and the role of our parliaments in reflecting the voices of our people.”
In January 2023, Prime Minister Albanese became the first foreign leader to address the PNG Parliament.
Just over a year later in February 2024, Prime Minister Marape was the first Pacific leader to address both Members and Senators in the Parliament of Australia.
This mutual recognition reflects the shared democratic values and warm friendship between Australia and Papua New Guinea, which continues to grow.
Construction of the new wing will follow a PNG-led design and consultation process and draw on local craftsmanship and expertise.