The inaugural PNG – Australia Western Province Strategy Dialogue was held on Monday 30 October 2023, in Daru, Western Province.
Co-chaired by outgoing Australian High Commissioner, H.E Jon Philp and Western Province Governor, Hon. Taboi Awi Yoto, the dialogue focused on reviewing progress of the Strategy implementation, a year on from its launch in November 2022.
Through the PNG – Australia Western Province Strategy (2022-2030), Papua New Guinea and Australia are working together on shared priorities to support human development; economic development and enabling infrastructure; and security and stability.
The dialogue was an opportune time to ensure Australia’s development programs continued to align with the province’s development plans and emerging priorities in the soon-to-be-published Western Province Development Plan 2023 – 2027. Governor Yoto and High Commissioner Philp reaffirmed the commitment of both governments to the shared vision of sustainable and inclusive development of Western Province.
Western Provincial Administrator, Mr Robert Kaiyun, also shared valuable insights, experiences, and perspectives on the importance of donor and development partner coordination to maximise the reach and impacts of development activities across Western Province.
In his remarks, the High Commissioner said, “As the closest of neighbours, Australia shares strong ties and deep cultural bonds with the people and communities of Western Province. I am proud to reinforce this friendship and Australia’s longstanding commitment to Western Province.”
Marking the end of his tenure with his fifth visit to Western Province was special for High Commissioner Philp. He first visited Daru as the newly appointed High Commissioner to PNG in 2020, amidst the COVID-19 outbreak and drought that affected the South Fly District in the same year.
Since that first trip, there have been numerous achievements including improvements to water security in South Fly District, a major upgrade to Bosset Health Centre in Middle Fly District, and progress on Daru’s Hospital and Port.
Speaking at the dialogue, Governor Yoto emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration and highlighted the significant progress made since the launch of the development strategy.
"I am delighted to witness the tangible progress achieved through the joint efforts of our governments and communities in my province. The strategy has laid a strong foundation for growth, and it is our shared responsibility to ensure its continued success," stated Governor Yoto.
Acknowledging the High Commissioner’s farewell visit to the province, Provincial Administrator Mr Kaiyun said, “Mr Philp’s dedication and contributions to strengthening ties and fostering mutual understanding between Australia and Papua New will be remembered and celebrated.”
Dialogue co-chairs, outgoing Australian High Commissioner, H.E Jon Philp (second from left),Western Province Governor, Hon. Taboi Awi Yoto (third from left), leaders from the province and stakeholders at the inaugural PNG – Australia Western Province Strategy Dialogue in Daru.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100