Duke of York Prince Andrew

PM thanks royal for PNG visit

“Papua New Guinea appreciates the visit by the Duke of York and the time he has taken to meet many people during the days he spent with us,” PM O’Neill said.

“It was also appreciated that Prince Andrew was able to formally open the Pacific Games after having performed the same duty when Papua New Guinea hosted the Games in 1991.”

The Prime Minister said his meetings and discussions with the Duke of York were enlightening, and he appreciated Prince Andrew’s interest in the future development of Papua New Guinea.

Prince Andrew visits Bomana

He laid a wreath during a short memorial service led by PNGDF chaplain Lutenant Colonel Maisel Boude.

The Duke laid his wreath with the message 'In memory of British and Commonwealth servicemen giving their ultimate sacrifice for our freedom'.

There was a flag raising ceremony, then a moment of silence before the Prince toured the cemetery along with Brigadier General Gilbert Toropo and manager of Australian War Graves Robert Evans.

After the 20 minutes, Prince Andrew signed the visitor's book before departing Bomana.

Crowd gathers at airport for Prince Andrew

The Duke is arriving on board PNG's government aircraft, the Falcon jet.

The Falcon jet took off yesterday to Singapore where it was to meet the prince.

Officials at Jacksons’s airport say his arrival has been delayed by 30 minutes.

Officials did not specify the reasons for the delay

According to the official program the Falcon was to touch down by 4.30pm.

At the ceremonial park government officials, media, traditional dancers, police, army and correctional services officers are on standby to receive the Duke.