On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Papua New Guinea as you celebrate your National Day on September 16.
This year, the partnership between the United States and Papua New Guinea reached new heights. The United States reaffirmed our commitment to our bilateral relationship with Papua New Guinea during a high-level interagency visit to Port Moresby in July. Our delegation to Papua New Guinea had productive discussions with national and provincial leaders, as well as university students, that will guide us forward as we work together to promote prosperity, security, and stability in the region. The United States is unwavering in our commitment to partnering with Papua New Guinea to advance our mutual priorities, including addressing the climate crisis, advancing regional defense and maritime security consistent with our joint Defense Cooperation Agreement and Maritime Law Enforcement Agreement, promoting economic growth, improving transparency and good governance, and advancing respect for human rights, gender equality, and women's economic empowerment.
I offer my best wishes to all Papua New Guineans as you commemorate this momentous occasion of your independence.
