The National Government has appointed Dr Thaddeus Kambanei as Papua New Guinea’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China.

Speaking at Dr Kambanei’s commissioning ceremony on February 11 2025, Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Justin Tkatchenko said after five years, a permanent Ambassador had finally been appointed.

“I am gratefully relieved and satisfied to ensure that we now have a full time Ambassador in Beijing, China.”

“It’s a long process that gets approved through National Executive Council (NEC), the country of origin and to Buckingham Palace for King Charles Ill to endorse as we are part of the Realm of the Commonwealth.”

Minister Tkatchenko told Dr Kambanei that it is a demanding task to uphold the integrity of the country that he represents.

“As your minister, I look forward in working with you directly and through the Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Mr Elias Wohengu to ensure the relationship with China grows ever strong, vibrant, bigger and better than before.”

“Now with boots on the ground, and your capacity with your family support, will make it easier to get things done.”

PNG has supported the One-China policy since 1975 and will celebrate 50 years of bilateral relations anniversary with the People’s Republic of China next year.

Minister Tkatchenko said China is one of the biggest trade partners for PNG and they want to increase this support.

“I look forward to working with you and strengthening our good relationship with China.”

Ambassador Kambanei said, “I’m deeply honoured to receive the charge from Minister for Foreign Affairs as I embark on this important Mission as PNG’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China.” “Your confidence in my ability to represent the government and our nation’s interest in such a vital region is both humbling and motivating for me.”

“Kundu Beijing has not had an Ambassador for the last five years and it’s an honour and I’m privileged to be appointed in this capacity to represent our nation.”

“I will do my best to the best of my ability to serving our nation with distinction,” Dr Kambanei said.