PORT MORESBY – The U.S.-Indo Pacific Command announced the delivery of 5.4 million U.S. dollars’ worth (19,035,000 PNG Kina) of personal protective gear and helmets to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, marking a milestone in the deepening partnership between the United States and Papua New Guinea. The United States will continue to partner with Papua New Guinea on strengthening economic relations, security cooperation, and people-to-people ties, as well as promoting inclusive and sustainable development.

In a ceremony held on May 22, 2023, at the Papua New Guinea Defence Force headquarters on Murray Barracks, Admiral Aquilino, the Commander of U.S.-Indo Pacific Command, formally presented equipment to Major General Mark Goina, PNG Chief of Defence Force. The equipment is designed to enhance the safety and capabilities of Papua New Guinea Defence Force personnel during operations to promote economic prosperity, peace, and stability in the region.

“As Admiral Aquilino said, a commander’s number one responsibility is to make sure his soldiers are protected,” said Major General Goina. The equipment will significantly enhance the safety and effectiveness of Papua New Guinea’s military personnel as they carry out their important missions.”

The gift of personal protective gear and helmets represents a continuation of the strong partnership between the United States and Papua New Guinea and underscores the importance of building relationships based on mutual respect and trust. This delivery marks an important step forward towards economic security as the United States and Papua New Guinea deepen bilateral relations. The United States aims to advance Papua New Guinea’s ability to prevent conflict, promote sustainable and equitable economic growth, develop professionalized security forces, and build community capacity to more effectively prevent, mitigate, and respond to internal conflict.