Thursday 22 February 2024
Acting Governor General , Hon. Job Pomat (left), receiving credentials from the new US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, H.E Ann Marie Yastishock at Government House this morning. (photo credit: Government House).
The Acting Governor General H.E. Hon. Job Pomat, has officially received the new Ambassador of the United States of America to Papua New Guinea, Her Excellency Ann Marie Yastishock.
Ambassador Yastishock presented her Letters of Credence to Mr. Pomat at Government House today.
In his welcome remarks, the acting Governor General acknowledged the United States government for its continuous support and assistance towards the social, economic and political aspirations of Papua New Guinea, and urged both countries to increase direct bilateral trade between the two nations.
“The PNG Government recognises the continued support and important contributions that the United States of America has given through its USAID assistance to PNG, mainly in the areas of climate change and adaptation, health and HIV/AIDS, peace building, targeted democracy initiatives such as improving transparency and good governance, combating human trafficking, and promoting gender equality, amongst other various financial and technical development assistance programs.”
“PNG would also like to see increased direct bilateral cooperation in areas of trade, tourism, investment and development assistance that would be beneficial to our countries and peoples,” the acting Governor General said.
Ambassador Yastishock assured that the United States is committed to further its support through partnership in critical areas such as investment in the mining sector, climate change and defence cooperation.
“The United States is unwavering in our commitment to and partnership with Papua New Guinea to preserve an open, secure and prosperous country as well as Indo-Pacific region.
“Prospects for a dramatic rise in economic growth are palpable as demonstrated by increased U.S. investment in Papua New Guinea’s LNG and mining sectors.
“The Defence Cooperation Agreement-DCA, represents a natural progression in our decades of defense cooperation in Papua New Guinea.
“The DCA modernises our security relationship, enhances security assistance and improves the country’s ability to respond to disasters in Papua New Guinea and the region,” Ambassador Yastishock stated.
“As friends of Papua New Guinea, we stand ready to work with you on sustainable, inclusive, and transparent growth that creates prosperity for both of our peoples and promotes security and stability for the region that is well equipped to face any challenge that lies ahead,” Ambassador Yastishock said.
Papua New Guinea and the USA established diplomatic relations in 1975, however, both countries share a long history particularly during World War II which saw America fight many of its fiercest battles with Japan in parts of the country.
Ambassador Yastishock is resident head of mission representing the USA in PNG, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.