Pim Opinion
More than any other magazine, Pacific Islands Monthly has been involved with the history of the modern development of Papua New Guinea. We are pleased, therefore, to devote the column normally reserved for our editorial opinion to a special message from the Prime Minister, Mr Michael Somare, marking the Tenth Anniversary of his country’s full independence.
“The 10th anniversary of our independence is a time for both national celebration and serious assessment of our progress. We have much for which we must be thankful. Papua New Guinea achieved independence after a very short preparatory period. As independence approached in 1975 we faced major difficulties including separatist movements, a severe shortage of skilled manpower and an economy heavily dependent on overseas commodity prices. Many observers gave us little chance of successfully navigating through these difficulties. In the ten years since our flag was first raised on Independence Hill we have shown those observers to be wrong. We have built a system of government which gives adequate expression to regional aspira tions and protects the national interest. Separatist movements are no longer a serious threat to the nation. Our parliamentary system of government has shown its strengths and suitability. While it has
not been able to cure all problems, it has provided an appropriate forum for the people’s representatives. Through two changes of government, Papua New Guinea has demonstrated that the democratic, multi-party system we adopted is appropriate and suitable for our society. Today we face social problems due to urban drift, slow economic growth and the rapidly rising aspirations of our youth. These problems are not unique to Papua New Guinea, nor are they insoluble. I am confident that, with our democratic system, we can deal with these problems and lead our people to a more prosperous future. Papua New Guinea is a beautiful and naturally wealthy country. We have the people, the land and the resources to build a prosperous and satisfied country.
With discipline and hard work we have almost unlimited opportunities. The future is ours.”