By GEORGINA MICHAEL
The United States of America celebrated its 250th Independence anniversary at the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby yesterday.
The ceremony was officiated by Prime Minister James Marape, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Mr. Alex Berenberg and senior citizens and representative of business houses from US as well as PNG.
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Mr. Alex Berenberg highlighted the shared history and values between the two nations, emphasizing their geographical and cultural diversity.
The United States was one of the first countries to recognize PNG’s independence in 1975. Mr. Berenberg said that shared history continues to inspire cooperation.
Delivering the key note address, Prime Minister James Marape reflected on the shared values of diversity and democracy between the USA and PNG.
“Papua New Guinea, with its 836 languages and tribes, celebrates the US achievement and commits to supporting its democratic principles and free market economy,” Mr. Marape said.
“USA is equally built on diversity. People of all creed, color and languages find and call the great United States of America home. This reflects that even with our own worldviews, we can have a symphony of oneness, one nation, one people,” he said.
“I reaffirm that Papua New Guinea stands with the USA every step of the way as we continue to promote democracy, free market economy, and coexistence in this part of the planet.”
Mr. Berenberg acknowledged the presence of Prime Minister James Marape and other citizens of PNG as well as US for coming together to celebrate the 250th birthday of USA.
” This year, the United States celebrates 250 years of freedom, but we also respect a deeply meaningful milestone for our host Papua New Guinea in celebrating its 50th independence anniversary. In a country that speaks more than 800 languages, Papua New Guinea celebrated unity as a free nation. We share that spirit. We are both Pacific nations, rich in geographic diversity encompassing people from many different cultures, and we both come together united by freedom,” he said.
He highlighted the historical ties, including sacrifices made during World War II, and ongoing educational and cultural exchanges.
“Our Education USA program has sent over 120 Papua New Guinean students to the U.S. for advanced training in science, technology, engineering and math. Students will return to PNG with skills to advance innovation and growth here at home,” he said.
He noted that in February, a Papua New Guinean fashion designer showcased traditional cloth designs at New York Fashion Week, a milestone for PNG culture in one of America’s cultural capitals.
Mr. Berenberg said the U.S. remains focused on peace, stability and economic security in the Indo-Pacific, including through the Defense Cooperation Agreement signed with PNG.
“The United States is promoting trade and private sector investment in the Pacific to ensure economic independence and innovation,” he said.
“We are proud to celebrate 250 years of American freedom alongside another great free nation. The United States and Papua New Guinea will continue to dream, build, and innovate a future that reflects the very best of our shared values and shared history,” Mr. Berenberg said.