PNG Office of the Prime Minister

27/11/2025

Marape: PNG Will Not Be Silent on West Papua Human Rights Issues

Wednesday 26th November 2025.

Prime Minister James Marape says his government will not remain silent on human rights concerns affecting Melanesians, including the people of West Papua, and has consistently raised these matters with Indonesia.

Mr Marape said PNG’s foreign policy “is not being overshadowed or manipulated by Indonesia” and that concerns over alleged human rights abuses in West Papua have been communicated in multiple bilateral and regional meetings over the years.

He made the remarks in Parliament in response to questions from North Fly MP James Donald, who asked why the government was quick to comment on conflicts abroad but had not taken stronger public positions on West Papua, despite killings, displacement and refugees crossing into PNG’s Western and East West Sepik provinces that share common land border with Indonesias West Papua region.

MP Donald said more than 15,000 West Papuan refugees had entered PNG over the years, describing the situation as breaches of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and international law. He questioned whether PNG’s “silence” could be interpreted as fear or submission to Jakarta.

Prime Minister Marape Rejects Claims PNG Is Afraid to Speak

PM Marape firmly rejected suggestions that PNG was outsourcing its foreign policy to Indonesia or reluctant to raise West Papua issues.

“There is no element of fear. There is no scaredness on our part,” he said.

Marape reflected on spending part of his childhood in the Telefomin region and in refugee camps, saying he personally understood the West Papuan struggle.

“When it comes to Melanesian human rights, James Marape or a Pangu-led government — or anyone for that matter — will always advocate for Melanesian human rights,” he said.

He stressed that PNG’s respect for Indonesia’s national sovereignty is separate from its duty to raise human rights matters.

“Sovereignty issues are different from human rights issues. We respect the full sovereign integrity of the Republic of Indonesia. But if atrocities happen in West Papua, we have every right to speak,” he said.

PNG Consistently Raises West Papua Concerns

Mr Marape said PNG had communicated its concerns at all major forums — the United Nations, the Pacific Islands Forum, the Melanesian Spearhead Group, and in private bilateral meetings.

He noted that both former Indonesian President Joko Widodo and current President Prabowo Subianto had been briefed directly by PNG on Melanesian human rights matters.

“In all diplomatic channels — whether at the United Nations, at PIF, through the MSG, or in bilateral meetings — human rights issues affecting Melanesian people are always relayed,” he said.

Marape said President Prabowo had assured him that human rights concerns “should be looked at”.

He added that PNG played a significant role in shaping the Pacific Islands Forum resolution on West Papua during the 2019 leaders’ meeting, which called for Indonesia to allow the UN Human Rights Commissioner access to the region.

Government Policy Remains Unchanged Since Independence

Marape emphasised that PNG's foreign policy on Indonesia has remained consistent since 1975.

“We have maintained the same policy since Independence — respecting Indonesia’s sovereignty while raising concerns about human rights on the other side,” he said.

He assured Parliament that human rights issues in West Papua are “never ignored” and said PNG will continue to advocate respectfully but firmly

27/11/2025

PARLIAMENT RATIFIES PNG FOREIGN POLICY WHITE PAPER AFTER 40 YEARS

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea |Wednesday, 26 November 2025: After 40 years, Papua New Guinea has finally revised its Foreign Policy White Paper which was presented and unanimously ratified by Parliament today (26.11.25).

This new White Paper is themed 'Strategic Partnerships for Security and Economic Prosperity’, and comes after 40 years since the last White Paper in 1981 under the theme 'Active and Selective Engagement.'

Work on reviewing the paper started in 2022 when the Marape-Rosso Government recognized the need to review PNG's Foreign Policy paper to provide an up-to-date, modern and relevant Foreign Policy framework.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape welcomed the revised policy framework, saying this paper pronounces the country’s changing foreign policy direction in an increasingly complex and dynamic international landscape, and arrives at the right time after 50 years of Independence to chart the course for PNG’s international relations in its next 50-year chapter.

“The 2025 Foreign Policy White Paper reinforces Papua New Guinea’s foundational foreign policy doctrine of ‘Friends to All; Enemies to None’. It is updated, modern and spells out the direction we must take as we enter into the next 50 years,” he said.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko, who presented the document to Parliament, said he was proud to announce the successful completion of the paper and asked for Parliament’s support in endorsement.

Under the theme ‘Strategic Partnerships for Security and Economic Prosperity', the policy aligns PNG's international engagement with its domestic goals, asserting a confident, principled and pragmatic role for our country on global stage.

"At its heart, this Foreign Policy aims to promote national security, economic prosperity, social well-being and a sense of national unity through dynamic partnerships and purposeful diplomacy,” Minister Tkatchenko said.

"The policy reaffirms PNG's identity as a responsible global citizen and regional leader in the Pacific."

"PNG's Foreign Policy is grounded in a foundation of core values and principles, constitutional democracy, and human rights, and sovereignty reciprocity, peaceful co-existence constructive internationalism."

There are eight pillars that enables its effectiveness as a foreign policy. They include:

1.⁠ ⁠Bilateral Relationships;
2.⁠ ⁠Effective Multilateralism;
3.⁠ ⁠Robust Institutions that protect PNG’s sovereignty and security;
4.⁠ ⁠Economic and Commercial diplomacy;
5.⁠ ⁠Development Cooperation;
6.⁠ ⁠National Branding and Soft Power; and
7.⁠ ⁠Departmental and Diplomatic Reform and Leadership and Coordination.

The Department of Foreign Affairs is the key government agency responsible for overseeing, coordinating and implementing this policy.

Ends////

27/11/2025

PRIME MINISTER MARAPE HAILS 2026 BUDGET AS A MILESTONE FOR PNG’S STRONGEST PERIOD OF SUSTAINED ECONOMIC GROWTH

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has praised Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey for delivering what he describes as “one of the most economically transformative Budgets in the history of our nation,” as Parliament received the 2026 National Budget yesterday.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the Budget arrives as Papua New Guinea celebrates its 50th Independence Anniversary and embraces the Reset@50 agenda, marking a new chapter of economic discipline, national renewal, and growth-focused development.

He acknowledged the Treasurer for presenting a record K30.9 billion Budget, supported by expected Revenues of K29.3 billion, demonstrating that PNG’s Fiscal position has strengthened remarkably despite Global uncertainties. “I commend Treasurer Ling-Stuckey for another responsible, well-structured, and forward-looking Budget. This is not just another financial plan—it is a powerful statement of confidence in our country’s future,” PM Marape said.

Strongest Non-Resource Growth Run in PNG’s History

According to the Budget Speech by the Treasurer, PNG is experiencing its longest sustained period of real Non-Resource Sector growth, with annual real growth above 4% for six consecutive years (2021–2026)—a first in national history. Growth rates include:

4.2% in 2021

5.9% in 2022

4.7% in 2023

4.5% in 2024

4.6% in 2025

4.5% in 2026

Prime Minister Marape described these figures as evidence that “PNG’s economic engine is no longer dependent on Resource-Sector booms alone—we are building a diversified, resilient, and broad-based national economy.”

Living Standards Rising Again

The Budget also confirms that real living standards, measured by GDP per capita, have finally recovered from the sharp decline experienced between 2014 and 2019. Living standards are projected to rise:

K8,949 per person in 2025, exceeding 2014 levels

K9,137 per person in 2026

The Prime Minister welcomed this turnaround:
“For years our people endured falling living standards. Today, the story has changed—families are beginning to feel the benefits of sustained economic expansion and targeted Government interventions.”

Strong Pathway to a Surplus by 2027

The 2026 Deficit has fallen to just 1.1% of GDP, down from 8.9% in 2020, positioning the country to achieve a Budget surplus by 2027. Debt-to-GDP is also projected to drop from 48.4% in 2025 to 45.5% in 2026.

Marape stated:
“We are putting PNG back on a stable fiscal trajectory. Responsible economic management is now the hallmark of the Marape–Rosso Government.”

A K145 Billion Economy in 2026

PNG’s Economy is expected to reach K145 billion in 2026, up significantly from K133 billion in 2025, and more than 80% larger than the K79 billion economy of 2018. The Government remains on track to achieve its transformative targets:

K200 billion economy by 2030

K300 billion economy by 2035

K1 trillion economy by 2048

Low Inflation & Growing Jobs

Inflation remains one of the lowest in PNG’s recent history, including a 0.6% rate in 2024 and –2.2% in the June quarter of 2025, with 2026 projected at 4.2%—well below historic averages. Formal job numbers increased 2.6% to June 2025, with rural job creation also rising due to strong agricultural commodity prices.

“Lower inflation means our people can finally breathe,” PM Marape said. “We are protecting household purchasing power and ensuring wage earners retain value in their incomes.”

A Budget Built for the Reset@50 Era

Prime Minister Marape concluded that the 2026 Budget embodies the aspirations of a nation entering its next 50 years with renewed discipline and economic confidence.

“This Budget is a declaration that Papua New Guinea is no longer a nation waiting for prosperity—we are building prosperity. As we enter our next 50 years, this Government commits to continue steering PNG toward stability, opportunity, and inclusive growth.”

Ends....///

26/11/2025

Tuesday, 25 November, 2025

Prime Minister Marape Affirms Government’s Commitment to Open and Mature Budget Debate

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has affirmed his Government’s long-standing commitment to transparency, Parliamentary accountability, and respect for all Members of Parliament as the 2026 National Budget—totaling K30.9 billion—was formally tabled today by Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey.

Speaking after the Budget Session, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the Government will once again uphold its tradition, established since taking office in 2019, of allowing the Opposition ample time to scrutinize, debate, and respond to the Budget before it is passed.

“In the last six Budgets we have brought to Parliament, we have shown clearly that this Government does not run away from scrutiny,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “Unlike in the past where Governments rushed Budgets through the same day, we have consistently ensured every Member—Government or Opposition—has the time and space to thoroughly assess the Budget and make informed contributions.”

Prime Minister Marape reiterated that the week ahead will be dedicated to Budget examination by all Leaders, in line with the Government’s commitment to mature Parliamentary practice. He encouraged all MPs to take advantage of the opportunity provided.

“I have advised all Government Leaders to go through the Budget in detail,” he said. “We will be in Parliament tomorrow (Wednesday), Thursday and Friday. Leaders have the opportunity to pair the Budget to their Districts, Provinces, and Ministerial responsibilities and understand how it translates into tangible service delivery for our people.”

The Prime Minister further announced that the Opposition will be given the floor next Tuesday to present their official Budget Reply, consistent with the process upheld throughout his administration.

“We will give time to the Opposition to reply next week, Tuesday,” he affirmed. “After they present their response, I and relevant Ministers responsible for implementing the Budget will reply to the points they raise, ensuring the country is fully informed about our progress in 2025 and what we intend to accomplish in 2026.”

PM Marape stressed that transparency and respect for Parliamentary processes are hallmarks of his leadership and reflect a significant departure from previous practices.

“In the past, Budgets were bulldozed through—hands pressed down, passed in the same day, Parliament adjourned immediately,” he noted. “We beg to differ. This Government respects all Leaders and upholds proper process. Parliamentary democracy must be meaningful, not ceremonial.”

He highlighted that the Government’s approach ensures the country remains fully aware of how public funds are being used, what programs are being delivered, and how the Budget aligns with the broader development agenda.

“Our people deserve to understand how we are tracking against the 2025 Budget and what we will do in 2026,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This is why we take the time to explain, debate, and respond. Transparency strengthens democracy, builds trust, and ensures national stability.”

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that Parliament will resume next week to continue Budget debate in an orderly and respectful manner.

“Leaders will have today, tomorrow, Thursday, Friday, and the weekend to study the Budget. We will debate next Tuesday and adjourn after proper and considered debate. That is the way it should be—and that is how we will continue to operate.”

The Prime Minister concluded by calling for unity and constructive engagement across the Political spectrum.

“As leaders elected by our people, our duty is to engage honestly and respectfully,” he said. “Let us debate on the facts, debate for the country, and ensure that the 2026 Budget delivers meaningful outcomes for Papua New Guinea.”

Ends....////

20/11/2025

PRIME MINISTER MARAPE CALLS FOR CONSTRUCTIVE AND PROGRESSIVE LEADERSHIP IN RESPONSE TO OPPOSITION QUESTIONS

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today delivered a firm yet constructive response in Parliament to questions raised by Chuave MP Hon. James Nomane during Question Time, urging the Opposition to adopt a more positive, progressive, and nation-building approach when engaging on matters relating to the National Budget and government funding allocations.

Prime Minister Marape welcomed the questions as part of a healthy Parliamentary democracy, but stressed that national leaders must elevate the conversation by focusing on development outcomes, accuracy of information, and the collective interest of Papua New Guinea.

“I appreciate the Member for Chuave for asking this important question, because every opportunity we have on this floor must help our people understand how their Government is delivering for them. But leaders must speak in a way that promotes national progress, not national sabotage. We must be factual, constructive and positive about our country, not negative and misleading,” PM Marape said.

In clarifying the issue of Budget disbursements and DSIP allocations, Prime Minister Marape stated that his Government has consistently ensured fair and transparent distribution of funding across all Districts, including Opposition-held Electorates.

He pointed to publicly available records on the Department of Treasury website, including Final Budget Outcomes dating back many years, which allow any citizen or leader to verify Government spending.
“Every year, Final Budget Outcomes are published by the Treasury. Anyone—including my good brother from Chuave—can check exactly how funds have been allocated and spent. Transparency is not an issue; the information is there. Let us use facts, not speculation,” the Prime Minister said.

Responding specifically to DSIP concerns, PM Marape reaffirmed that the Government has been even-handed across all Districts.

“For 2025, Chuave has received K8 million so far—exactly the same amount my own district, Tari-Pori, has received at this point of the year. Last year, Chuave received the full K10 million. That is fairness. This Government does not discriminate based on political alignment,” he emphasized.

Prime Minister Marape also revealed upcoming Reforms that will further strengthen equitable development across Papua New Guinea.

“In 2026, we intend to introduce Constitutional amendments to guarantee minimum service funding to all Districts and Provinces. This will ensure future Governments cannot withhold funds at their discretion. Every District will have a protected minimum allocation for essential services,” he announced.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the Government’s ongoing development commitments in Chuave and surrounding areas, including road infrastructure and District-level programmes supported through national agencies and development partners.

“Just because a Member sits on the opposite side does not mean his people are not my people. I am Prime Minister for all Papua New Guineans. Chuave people are as important to me as Tari-Pori people or any other electorate,” he said.

PM Marape encouraged Hon. Nomane and all Opposition MPs to continue raising questions but to do so in a manner that builds confidence, unity and forward momentum for the country.

“I respect the Member’s right to ask questions. But I urge him, and all of us, to ask with the intention of lifting our nation up—not tearing it down. Papua New Guinea needs leaders who speak hope, progress and solutions. Let us work together for national advancement,” he stated.

The Prime Minister concluded by stating that his Government remains committed to transparency, fairness and responsible Budget management, and will continue to publish financial information so that the public can hold all leaders—Government and Opposition—accountable.

“Let us be leaders who move PNG forward,” PM Marape said.

Ends....///

16/10/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, 15 October 2025

Prime Minister Marape Commends Reopening of Central Province’s Historic Kapakapa Trail

Port Moresby, Wednesday, 15 October 2025 - Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the reopening of the Kapakapa (Ghost Mountain) Trail in Central Province, describing it as a major step towards promoting wartime heritage tourism, rural development, and international friendship between Papua New Guinea, Australia, and the United States.

The reopening expedition—featuring 10 American and Australian trekkers, including acclaimed authors of The Ghost Mountain Boys and In Search of the Flying Dutchmen—departed this week for Dorobisoro village in Rigo District. The trekkers, supported by Getaway Trekking and PNG Tribal Foundation, will retrace the legendary World War II route taken by the 33rd American Infantry Division as they advanced through the Owen Stanley Ranges in 1942.

Prime Minister Marape congratulated the Central Provincial Government, under Governor Rufina Peter, and Rigo MP Hon. Sir Ano Pala for reviving the trail in partnership with the PNG Tribal Foundation, noting that such initiatives highlight Papua New Guinea’s enduring place in world history.

“The reopening of the Kapakapa Trail is more than a tourism project—it is a bridge between nations and generations,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“It honours the shared sacrifices of our people and Allied forces during World War II, while bringing new life to remote communities through tourism, education, and service.”

The Prime Minister said the 48-kilometre trek will not only rekindle international interest in PNG’s wartime heritage but also bring practical benefits such as delivery of medical and educational supplies to rural communities along the route.

“I commend all those who are working to transform this once-forgotten wartime trail into a living pathway of remembrance and opportunity,” he added.

“As Papua New Guinea celebrates its 50th year of independence, such projects reflect our nation’s resilience, unity, and growing confidence to share our stories with the world.”

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to supporting heritage tourism, rural airstrips, and trekking infrastructure as part of the Connect PNG and Tourism Promotion Authority programmes, ensuring that remote communities like those in Rigo benefit directly from the nation’s economic growth.

He also extended his appreciation to the international team of trekkers and filmmakers for choosing to tell Papua New Guinea’s story of courage and humanity through this journey.

“Every step along the Ghost Mountain Trail tells a story of bravery—of Papua New Guineans who carried supplies, guided soldiers, and gave hope through hardship.

“Reopening this trail allows us to honour them properly and invite the world to walk where heroes once walked.”

ENDS

01/10/2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vc801PLiTIg

Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape delivered a powerful address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, marking 50 years of PNG’...

01/10/2025

OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER

PRESS RELEASE

Tuesday, 30 September, 2025

Prime Minister Marape receives 2026 Parliament Budget Submission, reaffirms support for PNG’s 'Seat of Democracy'

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today met with Speaker of the National Parliament, Hon. Job Pomat, at Melanesian Haus, Waigani, where the Speaker formally presented the National Parliament’s 2026 Budget Submission of over K615 million.

The Speaker emphasized that the Legislature, as one of the three Arms of Government, must receive the same level of diligence and support as the Executive and Judiciary, further elaborating that the National Parliament by law is a very important symbol of Governance and Law Enactment for the nation and must be given priority in terms of funding support. He underscored that funding Parliament’s operations and infrastructure is essential to strengthening PNG’s democracy.

Prime Minister Marape welcomed the Submission and commended the Speaker’s leadership in ensuring Parliament is adequately resourced to meet both present and future needs.

“Our Parliament is not just another building. It is the very 'Seat of Papua New Guinea’s Democracy'. As we celebrate our 50th Independence Anniversary, we must honour and invest in the institution that embodies the voice of our people,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Equal Support for All Arms of Government

The Prime Minister noted that the Government has already demonstrated strong commitment to the Judiciary through the construction of the new National Court Complex, and pledged that similar support will be extended to the Legislature, in particular the National Parliament.

“Just as we built a new Court House for the Judiciary, we must also invest in Parliament as the Legislative Arm of Government. These three Arms – Legislature, Judiciary and Executive – must each be supported to function effectively, for they uphold the rule of law and governance in our nation,” he said.

The Prime Minister added that his Government has invested over K400 million over the last six years since taking Office towards supporting the Judiciary, culminating in the completion of the state-of-the-art Court Complex that houses both the Supreme and National Courts. He stressed that substantial support in similar fashion will be mobilised to maintain and expand the National Parliament.

The 2026 Budget Submission includes provisions for physical renovations to Parliament House, modernisation of ICT systems for a “Paperless Parliament,” and operational support to strengthen the capacity of Members of Parliament and Parliamentary Staff, as well as Parliament Library and Archives.

Prime Minister Marape added that his Government will go further by fixing, restoring, and maintaining Parliament and constructing a 'new D-Wing', ensuring Parliament is fit for purpose in the decades ahead.

“We will not only refurbish and maintain the building, but also construct a 'new D-Wing'. This is about preparing Parliament for life beyond our first 50 years as a nation. It will be restored and modernised to be a 21st century institution worthy of our Democracy,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Government’s Commitment to Strengthening Democracy

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that strengthening Parliament is a national priority, especially in the context of the country’s Golden Jubilee.

“Our Parliament has served the nation faithfully for 50 years. It has been the arena where laws are made, policies debated, and where the will of our people is expressed. We owe it to future generations to maintain and modernise this institution so that it continues to serve the country with dignity and efficiency,” the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister further outlined planned reforms, including upgrading Parliament’s sound, electronic, computer, library, and archival systems, as well as strengthening the Parliamentary Committee System and providing a separate Budget line for the Opposition.

“We want the Opposition to be properly resourced, not held to ransom, because they are an essential part of the Check-and-Balance mechanism for our Democracy. A vibrant Parliament requires strong Committees and an empowered Opposition that can hold Government to account,” he stated.

Prime Minister Marape also highlighted the importance of ensuring that Parliament operates at arm’s length from the Executive while functioning effectively to pass good laws for the country.

“This is part of the Reset and reconstruction of our democratic institutions as we move beyond our 50th anniversary. Parliament will be linked more closely with Provincial Legislatures and the Bougainville Legislature, so that Law-Making at all levels is strengthened,” he added.

Moving Forward

The Prime Minister assured the Speaker and the people of Papua New Guinea that his Government will give serious consideration to the K615 million Submission as part of the 2026 National Budget process.

“I commend Speaker Pomat for bringing forward this Submission. Our Government will work closely with Parliament to ensure that this institution, the heart of our Democracy, is strengthened for the next 50 years and beyond,” Prime Minister Marape concluded.

ENDS

01/10/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DHvqzWtMq/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Prime Minister James Marape met President Donald J. Trump at UNGA in New York. This historic meeting comes as Papua New Guinea and the United States celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations.

From the signing of the Framework for Strategic Cooperation to strengthening security, economic growth, and people-to-people ties, we are building the foundation for the next 50 years of partnership. We cherish our shared history, shared values, and shared future.

Together, we are advancing peace, prosperity, and a free and open Pacific.

Department of Prime Minister & NEC

03/09/2025

PM Marape Welcomes UN Secretary-General to PNG Parliament, Affirms Deep Partnership

Port Moresby, Wednesday, 3 September 2025 — Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea, describing the visit as a historic affirmation of the enduring bond between the country and the UN.

Addressing Parliament, PM Marape said the Secretary-General’s presence in Port Moresby highlighted not only the international community’s confidence in Papua New Guinea but also the shared values that have underpinned the nation’s development journey since independence.

“Sir, you are most welcome to our land and to this People’s House,” PM Marape told Mr Guterres. “Your visit affirms the enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea and the United Nations family. Your speech today embraces Papua New Guinea, and for this I say thank you.”

A Nation with Deep Roots

PM Marape reminded the House and guests that Papua New Guinea’s story extends far beyond statehood in 1975. He reflected on the country’s rich cultural and civilisational history, pointing to UNESCO-recognised sites such as the K*k Early Agricultural Site, which shows evidence of organised agriculture dating back 7,000–10,000 years.

“Our valleys, islands and atolls are home to over 800 living languages — a reflection of our geography and our long, proud civilisations,” he said. “This linguistic richness is not simply a statistic. It is a living archive of human knowledge, creativity, and community.”

He further noted the significance of traditional systems such as the kin and toea, traditional currencies that once facilitated vibrant exchanges among communities and still influence Papua New Guinea’s identity today.

Foundational Partnership with the UN

PM Marape traced PNG’s special relationship with the United Nations to its early days, reminding Parliament that the UN played a key role in overseeing the former Territory of New Guinea under trusteeship before independence.

“Our bond with the UN is therefore foundational,” he said. “Barely weeks after our flag was raised, the United Nations General Assembly admitted Papua New Guinea as a full member. That decision placed us within the international community with equal dignity and responsibility.”

PM Marape also paid tribute to the UN’s involvement in the Bougainville peace process, from monitoring the ceasefire and overseeing weapons disposal to supporting the 2019 referendum. “This partnership shows the UN’s enduring commitment to sustaining peace beyond signing of agreements,” he stressed.

Support in Health, Disaster and Humanitarian Crises

The Prime Minister highlighted several critical moments when UN agencies had stood by PNG, including the 2018 polio outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic, and natural disasters such as the 2015–2016 El Niño drought and the recent Mulitaka landslide in Enga Province.

“From immunising three million children against polio to delivering food and supporting displaced communities, the UN’s humanitarian work has saved lives and built resilience in our most remote communities,” PM Marape said.

A Shared Vision for Sustainable Growth

Looking to the future, PM Marape outlined his government’s ambitious economic vision, which aims to lift PNG into a K200 billion economy by 2030 and a K500 billion economy within two decades. He emphasised that growth must be “green, resilient and inclusive,” driven by clean energy, high-value agriculture, responsible resource use, and digital inclusion.

“For us right now, it is not aid but trade we are in search of,” he told the Secretary-General. “These are not just numbers. They are the means by which every child learns, every mother survives childbirth, every community is connected, and every entrepreneur, especially our SMEs and rural households, can thrive.”

Five Key Areas for Deeper UN Partnership

PM Marape set out five priority areas for deepened collaboration with the UN system:
1. Education and human capital — from early childhood to tertiary and TVET.
2. Healthcare and resilience systems — strengthening immunisation and maternal health.
3. Women’s safety and leadership — ending gender-based violence and sorcery-related violence.
4. Climate resilience and nature-positive growth — protecting forests, oceans, and biodiversity.
5. Peacebuilding and governance — ensuring electoral integrity, service delivery, and support for Bougainville’s post-referendum process.

Climate Action and Financial Reform

PM Marape endorsed secretary-General Guterres’ global calls for urgent climate financing and reform of international financial systems to support vulnerable economies like PNG. “Standing forests and healthy oceans are global assets,” he said. “Value must flow to our people and local communities.”

He added that reformed financial mechanisms must allow small island and climate-vulnerable states to invest in development without “drowning in debt.”

A Message of Unity

Concluding his address, PM Marape described the PNG–UN partnership as tangible, visible in vaccination cards, food deliveries, safe shelters, and dialogue processes that underpin peace. He thanked the Secretary-General for choosing to visit Wewak, Nuku, and Mount Hagen, including paying respects at the resting place of founding father Sir Michael Somare.

“On behalf of this House and the 10 million people of Papua New Guinea, I extend to you, Excellency Secretary-General, our greatest gratitude for your leadership,” PM Marape said. “We too will be a committed partner, blending a symphony of unity amidst diversity — one people, one nation, one country.”

ENDS