The French Ambassador to Papua New Guinea spoke highly of Franco-PNG relations during the French National Day celebrated in Port Moresby on July 14.
French National Day or Bastille Day is celebrated worldwide and in Papua New Guinea saw a grand event held at the Marriott Executive Desk venue, presided over by French Ambassador HE Guillaume Lemoine and his wife Olivia.
Lemoine reflected on the past year’s accomplishments in Franco-PNG relations, recalling the momentous visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Papua New Guinea in July 2023.
Macron’s symbolic walk with Prime Minister Marape in Variarata Park highlighted the visit, which Lemoine described as "a profound moment in bilateral relations."
"The frequent meetings between President Macron and Prime Minister Marape—five times in less than 13 months between the APEC Summit of Bangkok in November 2022 and the COP in Dubai last December—underscore the deepening relationship between our nations. It shows how France values the relation with Papua New Guinea. It shows how Papua New Guinea values France as a global player and a nation of the Pacific," he said.
The ambassador also highlighted the economic and development achievements of the past year. He pointed to the progress of the Papua LNG project, led by TotalEnergies, which has been a cornerstone of the economic cooperation between the two countries.
Additionally, he noted Air Niugini’s significant investment in modernizing its fleet with 11 new Airbus A220 aircraft. Other French companies like Easy Skill, AcquaTerra Food, Vinci, CMA-CGM, and Dassault Aviation were recognized for their contributions and sponsorship of the Bastille Day event.
In terms of development, the ambassador highlighted the launch of a Country Package for PNG dedicated to the conservation and protection of forests, nature, and climate. This initiative includes a pledge of at least 100 million USD for funds and projects aimed at benefiting local communities.
Lemoine praised Papua New Guinea’s proactive engagement in this partnership, describing the country as “one of the most advanced of this innovative model of partnership,” mentioning that potential funding pledges would be announced at the upcoming COP in Cali or Baku later this year.
Another key announcement was the recent establishment of the French Development Agency or AFD’s office in Port Moresby under the leadership of Benoit Chassatte. This new office will play a vital role in strengthening bilateral ties and facilitating new development projects.
Lemoine also noted the advancements in military cooperation between France and PNG, underscoring a mutual commitment to regional security.
“Of course, the bilateral relation between France and PNG will continue to improve on different areas of cooperation, also thanks to the increase in the staff of the embassy,” he affirmed.
He also invited attendees to look forward to the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics Games, emphasizing its potential to promote the values of Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, and the Olympic principles of Excellence, Respect, and Friendship.
“We hope that the Olympic spirit will spread on and off the field of play, to inspire athletes and spectators alike, but not only, also among the whole world,” he said, underscoring the opening ceremony and calling it “an amazing show.”
The ambassador also announced his forthcoming departure from PNG. He expressed pride in the achievements of his tenure and gratitude for the strong bilateral relationship that has developed. “I am happy and proud of the work that has been accomplished since I arrived,” he said.
Representing the Government of Papua New Guinea, Acting Prime Minister John Rosso was also present, along with Defence Chief Philip Polewara, German Minister of State at the Federal Foreign Office Katja Keul, members of parliament, the diplomatic corps, the French community, business leaders, non-government organizations, and friends.
