Papua New Guinea explained to kids

Papua New Guinea is a country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It comprises the eastern part of the island of New Guinea, as well as the islands of the Bismarck Archipelago and the Louisiade Archipelago. Papua New Guinea is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, with more than 850 different languages spoken. The official languages of Papua New Guinea are English and Tok Pisin. Papua New Guinea is home to some of the world's most biologically diverse ecosystems. The country has rainforests, mangrove forests, coral reefs, and alpine forests. Papua New Guinea is also home to many unique species of animals, such as the cassowary, tree kangaroo, and saltwater crocodile. The first Europeans to visit Papua New Guinea were the Portuguese in the early 16th century. However, it was not until the 19th century that Papua New Guinea was colonized by the British and Germans. Papua New Guinea was a German colony from 1884 to 1914, and then a British colony from 1914 to 1975. On September 16, 1975, Papua New Guinea became an independent country. Papua New Guinea is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, and the head of government is Prime Minister Peter O'Neill. Papua New Guinea is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, the United Nations, and the Melanesian Spearhead Group.