Groundbreaking for a new chancery building in Port Moresby for New Zealand's High Commission in Papua New Guinea. Photo credit: PNG PM Media.
Source: RNZ Pacific
A ground-breaking ceremony has kicked off the construction of New Zealand’s new High Commission chancery in Papua New Guinea’s capital.
High Commissioner Peter Zwart said the development in Port Moresby reaffirms New Zealand’s long-term commitment to PNG and the Pacific.
A news release from the Commission said the building design has been carefully articulated to represent the history and narratives of both countries.
It also includes bespoke meeting spaces to reflect the importance of coming together in partnership.
Zwart, who is soon to be replaced in the role by Georgina Roberts, presided over the ground-breaking ceremony with PNG’s Prime Minister James Marape and contractor McConnell Dowell
Marape said the new chancery was not just a building, but the New Zealand government’s acknowledgment of the two countries’ shared relationship.
“You’ve chosen to move to a new site, and create a new building that is reflective of our two people, especially the indigenous people’s spirit,” he said
Marape said the new chancery would reflect the two countries’ “shared past, but more importantly shape our journey forward into the future”.
This was echoed by Zwart.
“Last year we highlighted the breadth and depth of New Zealand’s 50 years of partnership with Papua New Guinea.
“Our work has now begun to lay the foundations for the next 50 years.”