AUSTRALIA has appointed senior diplomat Jamie Isbister as its next High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea.
The appointment was announced on Monday, 21 September, with the Australian Government describing the relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea as stronger than ever under the Pukpuk Alliance.
“Together our two countries are instrumental in shaping a peaceful, stable and prosperous Pacific,” the government said.
It highlighted the two countries’ shared history, close geographical ties and common values, saying the bonds between their people and communities are deep and diverse.
Mr Isbister is a senior career officer with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and was most recently Deputy Secretary of the Development, Multilateral and Europe Group.
He has more than 30 years’ experience in foreign, humanitarian and development policy.
His previous roles include Australia’s Ambassador for the Environment, Australian Government Humanitarian Coordinator, and Minister-Counsellor (Development) in Africa.
The Australian Government also thanked outgoing High Commissioner Ewen McDonald AM for his contribution to advancing Australia’s interests in Papua New Guinea.