United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres will address the Papua New Guinea Parliament during his visit next month, according to Prime Minister James Marape.
“This is the first time that a UN Secretary-General has come to our country. And it is not just a fly-in, fly-out visit, but a four-day stay – something quite unprecedented for the Secretary-General in any single location globally,” Marape said.
“This visit is a profound honour for our people.
“His presence demonstrates recognition of Papua New Guinea’s consistent respect for democracy, individual freedoms, human rights, and peacebuilding since Independence.”
Guterres will arrive on 02 September and leave on 05 September.
He will address Parliament on 03 September.
He said that the visit would also acknowledge the Bougainville Peace Agreement of 30 August 2001, a landmark in peace and reconciliation, and Papua New Guinea’s role in maintaining peace and unity within its diverse communities.
Guterres will call on the Governor-General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae.
He will travel to Mt Hagen on 04 September to witness community peace initiatives and visit forest areas that showcase Papua New Guinea’s rich biodiversity.
Marape said that Guterres was expected to speak on Papua New Guinea’s global significance as one of the world’s great biodiversity hubs, and to recognise the nation’s leadership in environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
“As we celebrate 50 years of Independence, we are humbled that global leaders, including the UN Secretary-General and His Royal Highness Prince Edward, will join us.
“Their presence affirms that Papua New Guinea is not isolated, but a respected member of the international community,” Marape said.
