Sir Arnold Amet was commissioned as the new Ambassador designate of the Independent state of Papua New Guinea to the United States of America. The Commissioning Ceremony was held on February 24, 2025, at the Central Government Office Building, Waigani, Port Moresby.

The event officially marked the beginning of the diplomatic journey of Sir Amet, who was entrusted with responsibilities to serve the Independent State of Papua New Guinea and its people at the Papua New Guinea Embassy in Washinton DC, United States of America.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Justin Tkatchenko who officiated the event affirmed Sir Amet’s appointment, asserting that the appointment was done through proper process and formalities at the highest level, by the National Executive Council.

“We’ve got a fabulous appointment, through honour and dignity in the likes of Former Chief Justice, Former Governor of Madang, and a Member of Parliament and also a senior States Man appointed as the Ambassador of United States is no mistake,” Tkatchenko stated.

Minister Tkatchenko emphasized the importance of formalizing the appointment of PNG’s Ambassador to United States, citing both country’s outstanding issues such as security cooperation that needs further dialogue and discussions.

“We will be working closely with the Ambassador on the implementation of the Defence Cooperation Agreement to ensure what we have agreed to and sign for will be implemented under Trump’s Administration,” Minister said.

Minister added that the appointment was crucial for PNG since the position was vacant for a long time. He said the appointment of new Ambassador will set a good phase for PNG-US relation to progress engagements and development cooperation, and to foster new opportunities that both countries can pursue going forward.

The appointment of the new Ambassador was timely to increase engagement between our two countries. PNG will continue to work closely with the United States in security cooperation as well in other areas of priorities.