NZ Prime Minister to address PNG Parliament during state visit

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will become the second world leader to address Papua New Guinea’s National Parliament.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko confirmed this in a news conference in Port Moresby, stating that Luxon’s address will be a key highlight of his three-day State visit to PNG next month.

“We don’t take these things lightly. We must preserve the sanctity and sovereignty of the National Parliament,” Tkatchenko said.

He recalled that when the Australian Prime Minister previously addressed Parliament, it marked a historic moment.

He said New Zealand’s Prime Minister has now been granted the same rare opportunity.

“New Zealand is a very close and loyal friend to Papua New Guinea for over 50 years, and this occasion reflects that strong relationship,” Tkatchenko said.