Papua New Guinea Independence Day

Papua New Guinea Independence Day

September 16This national holiday celebrates Papua New Guinea's independence on this day in 1975. In the late 19th century Germany laid claim to the northeastern section of the island, while Britain ruled the southeastern section. Britain left its section to Australia in 1902, which occupied the German area in 1914, and eventually administered the whole area until independence, though it is still part of the British Commonwealth.
In 2000, Papua New Guinea celebrated its silver jubilee (25th) anniversary of independence with a flag-raising ceremony, a parade, and musical and dance performances in the capital city, Port Moresby.
CONTACTS:
Embassy of Papua New Guinea
1779 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Ste. 805
Washington, D.C. 20036
202-745-3680; fax: 202-745-3679
www.pngembassy.org