Today I met with Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister Peter O’Neill ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum.
This is my third visit to PNG as Prime Minister.
Australians value the bond we share with PNG, forged through history, geography and our enduring links.
We have shared many significant moments, including September 16, 1975 – the day PNG became independent.
To mark this milestone, I am pleased to announce that Australia will provide $25 million over four years to support the upgrade of PNG’s foremost national cultural institution, the PNG National Museum and Art Gallery.
This will ensure that the remarkable building continues to showcase and preserve PNG’s rich cultural heritage.
The Kokoda track is a powerful part of PNG's history. Since 2008, Australia has provided $40 million to maintain and improve the Kokoda track. Today I announce a further $5 million per year over five years to continue this initiative.
This will support the maintenance of the track, improve the quality of life for communities living and working along it, and help protect its natural and cultural resources.
Prime Minister O’Neill and I discussed progress on processing and settlement under the Regional Resettlement Arrangements. I thank PNG for its continued cooperation in this regional solution. Progress has been made and we discussed the importance of moving ahead to settle those found to be refugees.
I congratulate Prime Minister O’Neill for hosting the Forum, which is focused on real reforms that can improve the lives of all people in the Pacific region.
10 September 2015