Tuesday 5th August, 2025
New Zealand Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, arrived in Papua New Guinea on Monday evening to commence a three-day official visit focused on strengthening bilateral relations and development cooperation between the two countries.
Prime Minister Luxon and his delegation touched down at Jacksons International Airport at approximately 6:30 pm aboard an RNZAF flight.
They were accorded a ceremonial welcome, including a guard of honour parade and a 19-gun salute.
An official dinner was held later that evening at APEC Haus, hosted by Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister, Hon. James Marape, to formally welcome the visiting delegation.
Today, Tuesday 5 August, Prime Minister Luxon met with the Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, at Government House. He then addressed the National Parliament, underscoring the importance of New Zealand–PNG cooperation in regional stability, health, and economic development.
A key highlight of the day included the unveiling of a memorial plaque at the New Zealand High Commission. The plaque commemorates a historic tree planting by founding Prime Ministers Sir Michael Somare and Sir Robert Muldoon.
Prime Minister Luxon also visited the Goldie River Training Depot, where he observed joint training exercises conducted by the Papua New Guinea Defence Force and the New Zealand Defence Force.
Further engagements include scheduled visits to the PNG Centre for Eye Health and Port Moresby General Hospital to witness New Zealand-supported health programs.
Bilateral talks with Prime Minister Marape are expected to take place at Melanesia Haus, followed by a joint media conference.
The day will conclude with a 50th Anniversary Reception hosted at the New Zealand High Commission.
Tomorrow, Wednesday, Prime Minister Luxon will attend a breakfast meeting with Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and members of the PNG business community at the Hilton Hotel.
He will then return to the High Commission for a final engagement with recipients of New Zealand’s Economic Development Support before departing Port Moresby at midday.
The visit reaffirms New Zealand’s commitment to deepening partnerships across health, defence, and economic development in the Pacific region.