Papua New Guinea and Australia should not take each other for granted but work together with shared goals for the prosperity of each of their people.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape said this during the “Yumi Stap Wantem’’ event on Wednesday (14.05.25) evening. The event was organized by the Australian High Commission as part of the lead-up programs of PNG’s 50th Independence anniversary this year.
Prime Minister Marape said since Australia took on the United Nations man- dated responsibility over the Territory of Papua and New Guinea and eventually granted independence on 16th September 1975, the two nations remain closely bonded by their people-to-people and business-to-business relations.
He said amidst the many programs that are happening for PNG’s 50th Independence anniversary, it is good to see the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby organise the event as part of the countries’ shared history going to- wards 16th September 2025.
“I thank the Australian High Commissioner, the diplomatic community, and our guests for being part of tonight’s important event.
“We are very privileged to have Australia launch this program, ‘Yumi Stap Wantem’ – ‘We are Together, Side by Side, and Step by Step.’ It’s an important message.
“This event tonight is not just another diplomatic function. It symbolizes the continuing friendship and partnership between our two nations, Papua New Guinea and Australia, as we look forward to celebrating 50 years of Papua New Guinea’s independence,’’ said Prime Minister Marape.
The Prime Minister said this year, 2025, will mark a major milestone in PNG’s national journey.
He added that for many nations, 50 years is a young age, but for PNG, it represents the struggles, growth, and progress PNG has made — with friends walking alongside PNG.
“Let me place on record Papua New Guinea’s sincere appreciation to the people and government of Australia. Before 1975, you were helping us build our schools, hospitals, and roads and support the establishment of our institutions.
“After independence, you didn’t walk away. You stayed. You helped us grow our systems. You helped fund our development. You stood with us through crises, whether it was natural disasters or pandemics.
“Tonight is another example of how Australia continues to walk with Papua New Guinea. This partnership, through ‘Yumi Stap Wantem,’ is a reminder that we are not alone. It is a powerful message of friendship and solidarity.
“I want to thank the Australian High Commissioner and your team – and through you, the Australian Government and people – for believing in our country and people,” the Prime Minister added.
He said, “as we head into 50 years, we want to not only reflect on the past, but to set a solid foundation for the next 50 years. We want to see a PNG that is prosperous, united, safe, and where no one is left behind. And we want to do that in partnership with our closest neighbors and friends.”
The Prime Minister also thanked and acknowledged other development partners – Japan, China, the United States, New Zealand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, India, South Korea, France, United Kingdom, Solomon Island, Fiji, the EU, the PIF, and many others who are also contributing to the development of the country.
He said PNG is open to partnerships that respect its sovereignty, that support PNG’s development goals, and genuinely seeks to improve the lives of Papua New Guineans.
“We are not in a rush to be like other countries. We are Papua New Guineans. We will grow at our own pace, based on our values, our culture, and our people. But having friends like Australia, who understands us, who has walked with us for decades, make that journey much easier. Let us continue to work together.
“Let us make our 50th independence anniversary not just a celebration of the past but a launchpad for the future.
“I want to assure the Australian Government and all our friends here tonight that PNG remains committed to this partnership. As we go forward, we must continue to strengthen our ties. Our people must interact more. Our businesses must connect. Our leaders must work together. Our future generations must understand the bond we share.
“So, thank you again, Australia, for being here for us. Thank you for this beautiful initiative -‘Yumi Stap Wantem.’ I encourage all Papua New Guineans to embrace this message. Let us walk together. Let us grow together. Let us face the future together.
“I encourage my fellow Papua New Guineans not to take Australia and its people and their presence for granted but embrace them and work together for our own good. We would like Australians to do the same to us PNG,’’ said Prime Minister Marape