Today saw the British Government, presented the Regimental Colours of both the First and Second Royal Pacific Islands Regiments (PIR) to the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) in preparation for the Trooping of Colours come September, a day before the 50^th Independence Anniversary. Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko was there to receive the Regimental Colours from the British High Commissioner to PNG H.E Anne Macro at the Central Government Office building at Waigani, Port Moresby city. Minister Tkatchenko said these Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF) Regimental Colours embody the history, spirit, and tradition of the units to which they belong. They are highly valued, carefully guarded, and treated with the greatest respect. “This presentation is especially meaningful as it comes at a time when Papua New Guinea is preparing to mark 50 years of Independence,” said the minister. “We are deeply honoured that His Royal Highness, Prince Edward, representing His Majesty King Charles III, will officially present these Regimental Colours during his Visit in September this year. That presentation will symbolize not only the loyalty and service of our military but also the enduring friendship and partnership between the government of Papua New Guinea and the government of the United Kingdom.” These Regimental Colours will be presented on the 15th of September at the Murray Barracks in Port Moresby city. The Regimental Colours also include the new King's Colours which replaces that of the Queen's Regimental Colours. High Commissioner Macro also highlighted the significance of the Regimental Colours. “I am very pleased to be able to handover to the Papua New Guinea Government on behalf of the British Government and the people of the United Kingdom this 50^th Anniversary gift of new Colours of the First and Second Regiments,” said the British High Commissioner. "Regimental Colours are not just flags, they’re important symbols that represent spirit, history and honour of a military unit." "There origins were traced back to the days when flags were used in the battle fields to help soldiers identify their own units amongst the chaos of combat. Over time, they evolved into ceremonial emblems of pride and tradition." "Each colour bares the insignia, the battle honours and regimental symbols unique to that unit. They tell the story of the regiment’s past, its founding, its campaigns, and its sacrifices." “They are a visible reminder of a soldier’s oath to serve their King, their country and their comrades,” said High Commissioner Macro. For the Pacific Islands Regiment, these honours include South- West Pacific 1942–45, Kokoda Trail, Finschhafen, Sio- Sepik and others. These sideshows, consecrated in the Colours, serve as a constant reminder to every member of the PNG Defense Force of their duty to Sovereign, Country, and People.