Papua New Guinea is a country located in Oceania, occupying the eastern half of the island of New Guinea as well as numerous smaller islands. It is bordered to the west by Indonesia and lies to the north of Australia, separated by the Torres Strait. The nation is known for its diverse cultural heritage, with over 800 distinct languages spoken, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. Papua New Guinea has a rich tapestry of indigenous cultures, traditions, and practices, reflecting its varied geography, which includes mountains, rainforests, and coastal regions. The capital city is Port Moresby. Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia in 1975 and is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. The economy is largely driven by agriculture, forestry, and mining, and it has significant natural resources including oil and gas. The country’s natural beauty and cultural richness make it a unique destination for exploration and study.