Tkatchenko updates on event line-up for Golden Jubilee celebrations

Minister responsible for Foreign Affairs National Events, Justin Tkachenko, has highlighted key events that will take place during Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations in September.

Mr Tkachenko said the celebrations will begin with Pacific Celebration Week from September 3 to 10, during which the public and international guests can enjoy cultural shows, military displays, and air shows.

The public is encouraged to visit various warships that will be docked in Port Moresby throughout the week. Military forces from across the Pacific including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Solomon Islands will join in the activities.

“On September 3rd, we launch Military Week, featuring air shows, ship displays, and the Royal Tattoo performed by military bands from across the Pacific,” Tkatchenko announced.

“This celebration honours the unity of the Pacific community and their support for Papua New Guinea.”

Minister Tkatchenko said on September 13, a public concert at Sir John Guise Stadium will feature top local and international artists.

He said the next day [September 14] will mark the Royal arrival and Military Parade at Murray Barracks where a member of the royal family will attend the Royal Tattoo tour and join the symbolic [Trooping of the Colors] ceremony, where the former Queen’s Colors will be officially replaced by the King’s flag and presented to the PNG Defence Force Commander.

“This is a historic moment for Papua New Guinea.

“The Royal Visit is a key highlight of our 50th anniversary celebrations," Tkatchenko said.

And on September 15, PNG will welcome world leaders from the United States, China, Australia, Indonesia, and various Pacific Island nations.

That evening, the Government will host an official State Dinner at APEC Haus to honour the visiting leaders and celebrate the milestone.

The official Independence Day celebrations on September 16 will see the flag raising at Independence Hill in the morning and the day will be concluded with a flag lowering ceremony at Hubert Murray Stadium.

"A grand national celebration at Sir John Guise Stadium, including a live “PNG Story” performance involving hundreds of Papua New Guineans followed by the keynote address by the Prime Minister. A spectacular fireworks display to conclude the night."

The celebrations will conclude on September 17, as international dignitaries and world leaders begin their departure.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to visit

The Head of the United Nations Antonio Guterres is expected to visit Papua New Guinea, in early September.

Foreign Affairs Minister, Justin Tkatchenko announced this in Port Moresby, yesterday.

Mr Guterres is among two world leaders, arriving prior to the main independence celebration on September 16.

About 14 world leaders are expected to be part of the country's 50th golden jubilee celebration this September.