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Leaders' differing views on PNG independence - ABC International Development
Citation-ready fact
The United Nations had obligations for Australia to grant Papua New Guinea independence by 1974.
at latest 1974 year · PNG independence
United Nations, international body
It is 1973, and there are apparent conflicting views between Australian Prime Minister Gough Whitlam and Papua New Guinea’s Chief Minister Michael Somare, regarding the timing of when PNG should gain independence from Australia.
Self government is to be introduced at the end of the year, but the PNG leader wants more time before settling on the date of independence. Yet there are United Nation obligations for Australia to give PNG independence by 1974.
At a dinner given in PM Whitlam’s honour - while he briefly visits PNG in March - both leaders deliver speeches which reflect their views about the future of Australia's role in the country.
These are short excerpts of the speeches.
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