UN Day marked with Renewed Commitment to Global Partnership and Peace

The United Nations in Papua New Guinea joined the global community in commemorating UN Day on 24 October 2025, with a celebratory event held in Port Moresby, reflecting on 50 years of partnership, peacebuilding, and shared development goals.

At this event were representatives of UN agencies in the country, heads of missions, representatives of the UN’s partner organizations and distinguished members of parliament, including the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Powas Parkop, Governor for the National Capital District, Hon. Joe Sungi, Minister for Public Services, and Hon. Soroi Eoe, Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs.

In his keynote address, Minister Eoe reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s enduring commitment to the United Nations and its Charter, “When our flag was raised in 1975, the UN did not merely recognise Papua New Guinea — it welcomed us home. We stand for peaceful co-existence, respect for human rights, and sustainable development that leaves no one behind.”

Minister Eoe highlighted PNG’s leadership on global challenges, including climate change, forest and ocean stewardship, and fair trade in natural resources. He praised the UN’s practical support in times of crisis — from health emergencies to natural disasters — and acknowledged its pivotal role in peacebuilding, especially in Bougainville.

The Minister also reflected on the historic visit of UN Secretary-General António Guterres last month, the first by a sitting UN chief to Papua New Guinea. The Secretary-General’s engagements in West Sepik and Western Highlands showcased the resilience and diversity of the nation and emphasised PNG’s growing influence in the Pacific and beyond.

UN Resident Coordinator in PNG, Mr Richard Howard, addressed the gathering and paid tribute to the founding vision of late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, who in 1975 called for PNG’s national identity to be built hand-in-hand with the global community.

Mr Howard acknowledged the evolving challenges facing multilateralism and emphasized the importance of the UN80 initiative — a reform effort aimed at improving the UN’s efficiency, responsiveness, and impact. “The expectation is that we continue to do better going forward,” he said. “We must adapt to deliver more effectively for member states.”

He praised PNG’s leadership in peace building, citing the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the recent Melanesian Agreement signed in Burnham as global models of dialogue and reconciliation. “The next phase of the Bougainville process must deliver a win-win solution that meets the aspirations of both parties,” Mr Howard said, reaffirming the UN’s role as a neutral and supportive partner.

Mr Howard highlighted the endorsement of the National Prevention Strategy and the importance of peaceful community relations as a foundation for progress in health, education, clean water, and sanitation. He also commended PNG’s environmental leadership and its strong voice for climate justice on the world stage.

Closing his remarks, Mr Howard reminded attendees that the UN is not a foreign entity but a collaborative partner. “You are part of the UN,” he said. “We are here to support you in ways that respect your sovereignty, your strengths, and your local context.”

As Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of UN membership, both speakers called on citizens — especially youth — to embrace global citizenship through local leadership, peace, and inclusive development.