Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, has presented Disaster Management Reference Handbooks to U.S. Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock for distribution to disaster response officials in Papua New Guinea. The handbooks are intended to support and strengthen disaster response management efforts in the country.
Ambassador Yastishock emphasized the importance of cooperation between the United States and Papua New Guinea over the past five decades. “Over the past five decades, the U.S. and PNG have stood together to face many challenges, none more urgent than preparing for and responding to disasters that threaten lives and livelihoods,” she said. “This handbook represents not only a body of knowledge but also the spirit of partnership—sharing lessons, building capacity, and working side by side.”
The handbook compiles information based on years of U.S. disaster response experience and work in Papua New Guinea. It was developed by the Center for Excellence in Disaster Management (CFE-DM) at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command with input from Papua New Guinean and international partners.
A framework for enhanced partnership was established under the 2023 Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA), focusing on strengthening defense ties through humanitarian assistance and disaster relief collaboration.
In 2025, CFE-DM began a disaster response training program for first responders in Morobe Province, which is set to expand as a full-time specialist from CFE-DM is now based in Port Moresby.
The handbooks feature a logo marking both Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence and half a century of relations between the two countries. Distribution will be managed by the U.S. Embassy under Ambassador Yastishock’s direction.
The United States reiterated its ongoing commitment to supporting disaster preparedness and resilience efforts in Papua New Guinea: “The United States remains steadfast in its partnership with Papua New Guinea. As we have for years, the U.S. continues to stand ready to support disaster preparedness and response efforts that protect lives, strengthen communities, and build resilience for the future.”
Commander Paparo formally presented Ambassador Yastishock with the handbook compiled by CFE-DM in collaboration with local and international partners.