This past week, representatives from the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Embassy met with key Papua New Guinea (PNG) Government and Defense Force personnel for bilateral defense talks. The discussions focused on improving U.S. support, assistance, and capacity building for Papua New Guinea’s Defense Force.

Brigadier General Gilbert Toropo, Commander PNG Defense Force (PNGDF), the American Ambassador, Walter North, and their respective teams discussed ongoing mutual defense agreements, military training opportunities and exchanges, as well as the recent success of three combined defense exercises during 2015 – Pacific Resilience, Pacific Angel, and Pacific Partnership. The talks highlighted Papua New Guinea and U.S. cooperation priorities.

Papua New Guinea and the United States have a long and effective defense relationship. Together with partners such as Australia and New Zealand, the United States is proud to play a role in building the capacity of the PNGDF to respond to domestic and global threats.