Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asia and Pacific Affairs, Jonathan Fritz, visited Papua New Guinea from August 30 to September 3. The visit came ahead of the country’s 50th Anniversary of Independence and the anniversary of U.S.-PNG bilateral relations. The focus was on strengthening defense cooperation, commercial partnerships, and people-to-people connections.
Fritz’s trip precedes an upcoming visit by Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, who will lead a high-level U.S. delegation to the independence celebrations.
“PDAS Fritz’s visit highlights the depth and breadth of the U.S.-PNG partnership. From defense cooperation to economic investment and cultural exchange, our relationship continues to grow stronger as we work together toward a shared future,” said U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Ann Marie Yastishock. “Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence is a moment to celebrate the progress we’ve made and the opportunities ahead.”
During his stay, Fritz met with key government officials including Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko to discuss ongoing bilateral relations between both countries.
He also toured significant sites related to U.S. investment in Papua New Guinea, such as PNG LNG in Caution Bay—the largest economic investment in the nation’s history—and viewed plans for a new K1.6 billion fuel storage facility by DGCI Corporation. These projects underscore America’s role as a major economic partner contributing to local development.
Fritz engaged with students at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), sharing perspectives on U.S. foreign policy in the Pacific region and responding to questions about diplomatic careers and public service.
The United States has expressed its intention to mark both milestones—50 years since PNG's independence and five decades of diplomatic ties—by reaffirming its commitment to maintaining strong relations based on shared values.
Fritz also visited Bomana War Cemetery during his trip.