Papua New Guinea's prime minister, Peter O'Neill, in an independence day address, says the country will learn from its past mistakes and ensure resource revenues go to improving basic services.
He says his government is committed to providing strong, honest and committed national leadership, working for the people and the country..
Mr O'Neill says this means the government puts the maximum focus on development that delivers the greatest benefit to all citizens across the country.
He says this includes two current government initiatives.
They are the development of small to medium sized enterprises owned and operated by Papua New Guineans that will provide employment for thousands and lift living standards.
The prime minister says the second is the recently announced commitment to develop a number of urban communities providing modern and efficient services to attract industry and business, provide affordable housing and be a beacon for a diversified economy.
