Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) for East Asia and Pacific Affairs, Jonathan Fritz, concluded a productive visit to Papua New Guinea from August 30 to September 3.
His visit, just ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence and US-PNG bilateral relations, underscored the enduring partnership between the US and PNG, with a focus on defense cooperation, commercial engagements, and people-to-people ties.
PDAS Fritz’s visit sets the stage for the upcoming visit by Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, who will lead the high-level U.S. delegation to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence celebrations.
“PDAS Fritz’s visit highlights the depth and breadth of the US-PNG partnership. From defense cooperation to economic investment and cultural exchange, our relationship continues to grow stronger as we work together toward a shared future,” said US Ambassador to PNG Ann Marie Yastishock. “Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence is a moment to celebrate the progress we’ve made and the opportunities ahead.”
During his visit, PDAS Fritz met with Deputy Prime Minister Rosso and Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko to discuss the continuing bilateral relationship between the United States and Papua New Guinea.
PDAS Fritz also visited key US investment sites, including the PNG LNG in Caution Bay, the largest economic investment in PNG’s history.
Highlighting future investment in PNG, he saw the future site of the K1.6 billion fuel storage facility to be constructed by DGCI Corporation. These projects highlight the US role as a significant economic partner of PNG, contributing to the country’s growth and development.
Toward the end his visit to PNG, PDAS Fritz engaged with students at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), who aspire to be PNG’s diplomats, policy makers, economists, and politicians.
He shared insights on US foreign policy in the Pacific and answered thoughtful questions about the US-PNG bilateral relationship and careers in public service. “The United States is looking forward to celebrating 50 years of independence alongside PNG this month, and 50 years of diplomatic relations. We remain committed to maintaining our strong bilateral relationship, built on shared values and mutual respect,” PDAS Fritz said.