I know that all Australians will join me in congratulating the people and government of Papua New Guinea as they celebrate their 25th anniversary of independence.
Our two countries enjoy very close relations based on a lengthy shared history and mutual respect. As I said when I visited Papua New Guinea in 1999, there is a deep well of understanding and sympathy towards Papua New Guinea in Australia.
Australians are friends who recognise that Papua New Guinea is proud of its independence as a sovereign nation with distinctive national characteristics. We are proud to have had a role in fostering that nationhood and bringing about Papua New Guinea's independence 25 years ago, today.
Our partnership has steadily strengthened and matured through times of adversity as well as prosperity. Australia remains as committed as ever to an independent, prosperous and self-confident Papua New Guinea.
In honour of our close relationship and in celebration of Papua New Guinea's silver anniversary, the Australian government is proud to announce a gift to Papua New Guinea of a $3 million programme over the next four years to develop community-based sports and recreation activities. The Silver Jubilee Sports Programme will also include a number of short-term scholarships at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra, fostering the deep love of sport both our nations share.
I extend on behalf of all Australians our warmest and best wishes on this most important occasion in Papua New Guinea's history.
16 September 2000