The Australian High Commission has welcomed Australia’s Ambassador for Global Health, Chris Cannan, to Papua New Guinea.

Ambassador Cannan, who also oversees international education programs at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is visiting PNG for the first time in his role from March 15 to 20. The visit highlights the strong partnership between Australia and PNG in health and education.

During the trip, he will visit Port Moresby General Hospital to see how Australia’s support is improving screening and diagnostic services for mothers, infants and families.

The Ambassador will also meet Papua New Guinean alumni who studied through Australian-funded programs and are now contributing to the country’s public sector. He is also expected to visit several Australian-supported health facilities and meet frontline health workers delivering essential services across communities.

Ambassador Cannan said he looks forward to the visit, noting that Australia and PNG share a close partnership as neighbours and friends, strengthened during the celebration of PNG’s 50th independence anniversary.

Australia says it remains committed to working with PNG to build healthier, safer and more resilient communities while strengthening ties between the two nations.