The United States Embassy today unveiled plans for the construction of its new Embassy building and compound in Port Moresby.
The building and compound which is expected to be completed just before the APEC 2018 Summit and be fully functional by 2019 will be built and operated using state-of-the art technology.
During the unveiling, US Ambassador to PNG, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, Catherine-Ebert Grey, said the new building will be a symbol of the importance the United States places on its relationship with the three countries and their continued support for the Pacific Region.
US Department of State Construction Manager and Project Director, Deya Desouza, said during the presentation that the project will provide numerous benefits.
These will be in the form of direct foreign exchange into the country for the purchase of local materials, employment and training of around 300 locals, and the hiring of up to 20 contractors.
The compound and structure will incorporate green building techniques as well as water reclaiming technology (the use is sustainable forest products), and low emission building materials, which is in line with PNG’s sustainable development policies.
The new landmark will also showcase art from PNG and across the South Pacific.
Once completed, the building will be able to accommodate 200 people including seven US Marine Corp personnel.
Construction work on the compound began in 2010 but was put on hold in 2012 following the attack of two US Government facilities in Benghazi, Lybia, which resulted in the deaths of U.S. Ambassador to Libya J. Christopher Stevens and U.S. Foreign Service Information Management Officer, Sean Smith.
Following these the US Government endorsed and approved new security features to be included in all foreign US missions.
The New Embassy compound will be located at the Waterfront precinct at Konedobu.