PNG Independence 51-year messages: Prime Minister James Marape urged a “no laziness” culture, linking honest work to better hospitals, schools, roads and jobs, while West Sepik’s administrator called the province to reset on infrastructure, water, power and services. Labour spotlight: Sam Basil Jr said workers and the labour movement deserve more recognition in PNG’s political and economic progress. PNG nation-building & unity: NCD Governor urged citizens to stay united despite PNG’s diversity, calling culture and identity a strength. PNG LNG logistics: deugro set up dedicated entities to boost Papua LNG logistics, including Purari Project Services for marine transport along the Purari River and plans to import specialist river equipment. Public finance pressure: Public Employees Association demanded the government immediately pay about K182m in unpaid employer superannuation for April–August. Forex easing: BSP and Westpac say foreign-currency order waits have improved to one to two weeks as export receipts rise, though pricing remains the new issue. Mining security flare-up: clashes and arson at Panguna continue to raise redevelopment pressure in Bougainville. Regional business angle: Santos signed new non-binding LNG deals (POSCO and Ksi Lisims) as it expands its Asia-Pacific LNG portfolio. People & awards: UK-based nurse Dr Agimol Pradeep won the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2026. Telecom & connectivity: Telikom CEO Amos Tepi highlighted the company’s role in expanding digital access as PNG marks 51 years.