By Eliza Kukutu,Lachlan Eddie
Copyright sibconline
By Lachlan Eddie
The Papua New Guinea Solomon Islands Association (PNGSIA) celebrated PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary today at the Golf Club in Honiara.
The celebration began with a dawn service and flag-raising ceremony at the PNG High Commission Chancery, followed by a parade from Town Ground to the Golf Club for the official ceremony.
This year’s theme is “Celebrate Our History, Inspire Our Future.”
In his keynote speech, Honiara City Council Lord Mayor Cr. Eddie Siapu congratulated the PNG government and its people on reaching this milestone.
“Warmest congratulations to Papua New Guinea on your golden independence anniversary. On behalf of my councilors, HCC staff, and Honiara residents, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of PNG on this momentous occasion.”
“Your country stands tall and proud as you celebrate 50 years of nationhood,” said Cr. Siapu.
The mayor highlighted that PNG and Solomon Islands are close Melanesian neighbors with strong family ties.
“Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands are close Melanesian neighbors. Our two countries enjoy long-standing relations,” he added.
The celebration showcased PNG culture through traditional dances, live band performances, provincial displays, games, poetry, and other activities.
Similar celebrations are taking place across Papua New Guinea as the nation marks its independence.
Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia on September 16, 1975.
