NEW DELHI: During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG) on Sunday, a remarkable moment unfolded at Port Moresby airport, where the PNG Prime Minister James Marape humbly touched PM Modi’s feet and asked for his blessing.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the Indo-Pacific country marked the second leg of his three-country tour. Upon his arrival, India’s national anthem rang through the air, prompting the two prime ministers to stand still as a sign of respect. Moreover, a guard of honor was extended to PM Modi upon his arrival.
The visit holds significant historical significance as it marks Prime Minister Modi’s inaugural tour of PNG, making him the first Indian Prime Minister to ever set foot in the Indo-Pacific nation.
Traditionally, Papua New Guinea does not grant a welcoming ceremony to visiting leaders after sunset. However, in an exceptional gesture, the nation has made special arrangements for Prime Minister Modi, honoring him with a fully ornate welcoming ceremony.
Here’s everything you need to know about James Marape
*James Marape is the 8th Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, in office since May 2019. He has been a Member of the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea since July 2007, representing the Tari-Pori Open electorate in Hela Province in the uplands.
* In 2019, Marape successfully led a no-confidence motion against O’Neill and became prime minister. He pledged to improve the economy, reduce corruption and unite the country.
* As prime minister, Marape focused on improving the economy and reducing corruption. He also pledged to address the country’s infrastructure challenges and improve the delivery of essential services.
*Marape was elected to the National Parliament in the 2007 general elections. He was appointed Minister of Education in the government of Prime Minister Michael Somare. In 2012, he was appointed Minister of Finance.
*Marape was educated at Tari Primary School, Tari High School, and University of Papua New Guineawhere he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1993. He then worked as a teacher and businessman before entering politics.
*Marape was born on April 24, 1971 in Tari, Hela province.
* He is a member of the Huli people, one of the largest tribes and ethnic groups in the country. Marape’s father was a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, with Marape also identifying with the church.
*Marape is married to Rachel Marape, originally from the province of East Sepik. The couple have six children.
(With agency contributions)
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the Indo-Pacific country marked the second leg of his three-country tour. Upon his arrival, India’s national anthem rang through the air, prompting the two prime ministers to stand still as a sign of respect. Moreover, a guard of honor was extended to PM Modi upon his arrival.
The visit holds significant historical significance as it marks Prime Minister Modi’s inaugural tour of PNG, making him the first Indian Prime Minister to ever set foot in the Indo-Pacific nation.
Traditionally, Papua New Guinea does not grant a welcoming ceremony to visiting leaders after sunset. However, in an exceptional gesture, the nation has made special arrangements for Prime Minister Modi, honoring him with a fully ornate welcoming ceremony.
Here’s everything you need to know about James Marape
*James Marape is the 8th Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, in office since May 2019. He has been a Member of the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea since July 2007, representing the Tari-Pori Open electorate in Hela Province in the uplands.
* In 2019, Marape successfully led a no-confidence motion against O’Neill and became prime minister. He pledged to improve the economy, reduce corruption and unite the country.
* As prime minister, Marape focused on improving the economy and reducing corruption. He also pledged to address the country’s infrastructure challenges and improve the delivery of essential services.
*Marape was elected to the National Parliament in the 2007 general elections. He was appointed Minister of Education in the government of Prime Minister Michael Somare. In 2012, he was appointed Minister of Finance.
*Marape was educated at Tari Primary School, Tari High School, and University of Papua New Guineawhere he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1993. He then worked as a teacher and businessman before entering politics.
*Marape was born on April 24, 1971 in Tari, Hela province.
* He is a member of the Huli people, one of the largest tribes and ethnic groups in the country. Marape’s father was a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, with Marape also identifying with the church.
*Marape is married to Rachel Marape, originally from the province of East Sepik. The couple have six children.
(With agency contributions)
