By ORCHY REX
The European Union (EU) and Papua New Guinea have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership and shared commitment to peace, development, and climate action during an official ceremony at Government House in Port Moresby yesterday.
The event marked the presentation of Letters of Credence by the newly appointed European Union Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Ms Erika Hasznos, to Governor General Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae.
Ambassador Hasznos expressed her honor to serve as the EU envoy, saying she was “entrusted with the mission to foster a stronger partnership with Papua New Guinea.” She noted that the European Union has had a diplomatic presence in PNG since 1977 and looked forward to “jointly celebrating our bilateral 50th anniversary”.
Ms Hasznos highlighted shared values between the EU and PNG: “We share fundamental foreign policy principles such as peaceful coexistence and upholding international law. In today’s world, our shared respect for the multilateral global system is more important than ever.”
She commended Papua New Guinea’s position on global conflicts: “We greatly appreciate the consistent solidarity shown by your country against the war of Russian aggression in Ukraine.”
The Ambassador reaffirmed the EU’s continued support for sustainable development and environmental resilience. “We are partners in protecting our oceans and working towards sustainable development to the benefit, not only of the local population, but of the future of all our children,” she said.
Ambassador Hasznos emphasized that the EU’s Global Gateway Program would continue to fund key infrastructure projects in PNG to boost renewable energy, connectivity, agriculture, and rural entrepreneurship.
Sir Bob welcomed Ambassador Hasznos on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III, the Government, and the people of Papua New Guinea and said the country is looking forward to “enhancing and furthering the already good bilateral relations that exist between Papua New Guinea and the Delegation of the European Union.”
The Governor-General acknowledged the EU’s significant development assistance: “The PNG Government recognizes the continued support and important contributions that the European Union has given to Papua New Guinea’s development aspirations through various financial and technical assistance programs,” he said.
He further commended the EU’s ongoing support through the Multi-Annual Indicative Program 2021–2027, which covers projects in forest conservation, climate change, water and sanitation, and governance reforms.
“PNG is thankful to the European Union and other like-minded partners who have rendered support as the country embarks on climate change mitigation and forest biodiversity conservation initiatives,” Sir Bob stated.
“PNG has always maintained its position and adherence to the rules-based international order where disputes and wars are resolved according to conflict resolution arrangements under the United Nations.”
The Governor General assured the Ambassador of PNG’s full cooperation and support during her tenure, saying, “The Government of Papua New Guinea stands ready to accord you the necessary support and assistance you may require during your tour of duty in promoting and advancing European Union–PNG relations.”