Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape has accused U.S. President Joe Biden of offending the South Pacific island nation by implying that Biden's uncle had been eaten by cannibals during World War II. Biden's comments were made during a speech at a Pennsylvania war memorial where he mentioned his uncle, Ambrose Finnegan, who was shot down over Papua New Guinea, a region of heavy fighting during the war.
Marape expressed his disappointment in Biden's remarks, stating that Papua New Guinea does not deserve to be labeled in such a manner. He emphasized that the country was needlessly dragged into a conflict that was not of their making. Marape's statement comes as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visits Papua New Guinea to commemorate the strong defense ties between the two countries.
Marape also called on the U.S. to locate the remains of WWII soldiers in Papua New Guinea's jungles and to clean up the wreckage of war. He highlighted the scattered remains of WWII, including the plane that carried President Biden's uncle, and urged the U.S. to find as many remains as possible, including those of servicemen who lost their lives.
The rift between Papua New Guinea and the U.S. comes at a time when China is seeking to increase its influence in the region. Marape met with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Port Moresby to discuss building closer relations. Despite the tensions with the U.S., Marape emphasized the strong partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia, with Albanese reaffirming the countries' defense and security ties.
Marape's call for the U.S. to address the legacy of WWII in Papua New Guinea reflects the ongoing impact of the war on the country, with remnants of the conflict still posing risks to the local population. The statement from Marape underscores the importance of acknowledging and honoring the sacrifices made during WWII in the region.
