Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

On Friday 24 February 2017, following the departure of the Governor-General, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) from Australia, the proclamation assuming the Administration of the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia was signed by the Governor of Queensland, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC.

Afterwards, at Jacksons International Airport, Port Moresby, the Governor-General, was welcomed to the Independent State of Papua New Guinea by the Papua New Guinea Minister for Sports and National Events, the Honourable Mr Justin Tkatchenko MP and the Head of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Later, at Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Port Moresby, the Governor-General, following the passing of the former Governor-General of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, the late Sir Michael Ogio GCMG CBE, conveyed the condolences of the Government and people of Australia to Lady Esmie Ogio, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, the Honourable Peter O’Neill CMG and other members of the Papua New Guinea Executive and Government.

Then, the Governor-General attended the State funeral service in honour of the late Sir Michael Ogio GCMG CBE.

In the afternoon, in Port Moresby, the Governor-General met with the Australian High Commissioner to the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, His Excellency Mr Bruce Davis AM PSM and other High Commission staff.