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ARoB remembers Captain Bougainville

Bougainville for the first time commemorated an important day in its history – the date when the French Explorer, Captain Louis Antoine Comte de Bougainville first came into contact with the people of Buka.  

Celebrations were held at the Hutjena Oval today to mark the day that cemented an unbreakable bond between the people of France and Bougainville.

Speaking at the ceremony, President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville Hon. Chief John Momis described Captain Bougainville as a well-respected and honoured man.

"He was a brave explorer, who through perseverance and dedication circumnavigated the globe, at a time when the unknown was truly unknown."

"Since that eventful day when Captain Bougainville first communicated with the people of Buka, the Autonomous Region of Bougainville has seen many changes."

"We have, as you all know, suffered through a long and brutal war, but we have also demonstrated our capacity to innovate, celebrate and unite in our desire for long term peace," said Momis.

Also present at the celebration was French Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency Philippe Janvier Kamiyama who flew in from Noumea, New Caledonia and was accompanied by Commander of the French Forces.

It is recorded in history that Buka Island was first sighted by English explorer Philip Carteret in August 1767, however it was Captain Louis Antoine Comte de Bougainville who attempted first encounter with the Buka Islanders the following year in 1768.

Photo Credits: Wikipedia

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