Prime Minister Hon. James Marape recently extended a warm and formal welcome to the new British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Her Excellency Ms. Angela Macro. The meeting took place in Port Moresby.
High Commissioner Macro assumes her role succeeding outgoing High Commissioner Keith Scott, who will be embarking on another diplomatic assignment.
Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude for the long and storied relationship between Papua New Guinea and the United Kingdom, emphasising the commitment to the Commonwealth that both nations share. He encouraged High Commissioner Macro to deepen her understanding of the country and its diverse people.
“Welcome to Papua New Guinea, Madam High Commissioner. You will quickly discover that PNG extends far beyond Port Moresby, and Port Moresby itself is just a part of our rich tapestry,” Prime Minister Marape remarked.
“After settling into your office, I invite you to take the time to explore our beautiful provinces and get to know the essence of our nation.”
Prime Minister Marape expressed PNG’s eagerness to see further advancements in the relations between Papua New Guinea and the United Kingdom. He reiterated the importance of support from bilateral and development partners, particularly in the areas of trade and education.
“The United Kingdom holds a special place in the hearts of Papua New Guineans, as we were once a British Protectorate before gaining independence and continuing our membership in the Commonwealth,” he stated.
“His Majesty King Charles III serves as our King and Head of State, represented by the Governor General Sir Bob Dadae. We look forward to the support of our development partners, including the UK, as we implement our recently-launched Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) IV.”
Prime Minister Marape said King Charles III, who has a long association with Papua New Guinea, has been invited to open the new court facility in Port Moresby next year.
Prime Minister Marape also highlighted the environmental priorities of his government, emphasising the conservation of forests in Papua New Guinea. He sought support from industrialised nations like the United Kingdom in these conservation efforts.
Before her appointment as British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, High Commissioner Macro served as the High Commissioner to Lesotho from 2019 to 2022. Her extensive diplomatic career also includes roles as Deputy High Commissioner and Head of Political Team to Lesotho and Swaziland in Africa. She previously served in Rangoon, Burma, as the Second Secretary for Political, Economic, Press, and Public Affairs from 2002 to 2007 and as Second Secretary for Trade and Investment in New Delhi, India in 2007.
The meeting between Prime Minister Marape and High Commissioner Macro was marked by positive discussions on strengthening the bilateral relations between the two nations. Papua New Guinea, with its vast landmass and growing population, looks forward to a collaborative partnership with the United Kingdom in the years ahead.
