Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his Papua New Guinean counterpart, James Marape, embarked on a two-day, 16-kilometer trek along the Kokoda Track. This unprecedented joint journey aimed to strengthen the bond between the two nations and commemorate their shared history.
Their trek began with a warm welcome in Kokoda Village, where they were greeted by tribal leaders and presented with traditional garb. The two leaders addressed the gathered crowd, emphasizing their commitment to peace and cooperation.
As they traversed the mountainous terrain, Albanese and Marape were accompanied by a convoy of security personnel, porters, advisors, and media. They walked together at times, sharing conversations and taking breaks to admire the scenery.
Their destination was the Isurava Memorial site, where they would participate in the Anzac Day dawn service. This service commemorates the Battle of Isurava, a pivotal moment in World War II where Australian and Papuan soldiers fought valiantly against Japanese forces.
By undertaking this joint trek, Albanese and Marape aimed to embody the spirit of camaraderie and shared sacrifice that has long defined the relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Their journey served as a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations.