Friday 6th June, 2025
The Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary, Mr. Elias Wohengu, commends and thanks the Marape-Rosso Government for its unwavering commitment to strengthening and uplifting PNG’s foreign relations positioning through substantial investments in the PNG Mission in London via the Department of Foreign Affairs.
The government has allocated K8.3 million towards the renovation and refurbishment of the historic Somare House in London, 30 years since its establishment. This strategic investment aims to modernize the facility, improve operational capabilities, and serve as a symbol of Papua New Guinea’s growing diplomatic resilience on the global stage.
Mr. Wohengu emphasizes that this initiative reflects the government’s dedication to fostering stronger partnerships, increasing economic opportunities, and showcasing PNG’s rich diversity and potential investment destination to the international community. The upgraded mission will provide a more effective platform for diplomacy, trade, investment, and building robust people-to-people and institutional partnerships between Papua New Guinea, international organizations based in London, and the United Kingdom.
The PNG High Commission in London, United Kingdom, is one of PNG’s strategic missions. However, it has faced significant challenges in the maintenance and refurbishment of state assets—where the Head of Mission resides and hosts events on behalf of PNG. Mr. Wohengu thanked the government for recognizing the strategic importance of the mission and the timely intervention. He stated that this investment was crucial for addressing these issues to ensure that PNG’s diplomats have the necessary preconditions to effectively and efficiently carry out their duties with integrity.
Secretary Wohengu has confirmed that the long-awaited rehabilitation project has begun and maintenance work is in progress.
“Rebuilding and maintaining PNG’s overseas missions and posts remains one of the Marape-Rosso Government and the Department’s key focus areas since 2022. This investment will not only strengthen our bilateral relationships but also position Papua New Guinea as a confident and proactive nation on the world stage.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs expresses gratitude to the Marape-Rosso Government for its foreign relations step-up and reinvigoration, with its unwavering support in advancing Papua New Guinea’s diplomatic and national integrity abroad.