PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape has extended his warmest congratulations to the Government and people of New Zealand on the occasion of Waitangi Day, celebrated annually on February 6.
Recognising this important day in New Zealand’s history, Prime Minister Marape
reaffirmed the long-standing relationship between Papua New Guinea and New
Zealand, built on a foundation of mutual respect, shared democratic values, and
regional cooperation.
“As Papua New Guinea commemorates five decades of nationhood, we recognise the
contributions of key partners such as New Zealand, whose engagement has supported
our development journey,” Prime Minister Marape stated.
“From trade and infrastructure to governance and regional security, New Zealand
continues to be a valued and trusted ally in the Pacific.
“A cornerstone of New Zealand’s engagement with Papua New Guinea has been its
instrumental role in the Bougainville Peace Process.
“Following a decade-long conflict in Bougainville, New Zealand played a leading
diplomatic role in securing peace by hosting and mediating the Burnham Talks in 1997,
which led to the landmark Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001. New Zealand
peacekeepers were also deployed as part of the Truce Monitoring Group, reinforcing
stability in the region.
“New Zealand’s leadership in peacebuilding was crucial in helping Papua New Guinea
and Bougainville achieve a peaceful resolution. Its support in facilitating dialogue and
peacekeeping efforts remains a lasting legacy of regional stability.”
Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1975, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand have worked together across various sectors, including:
- Trade and Investment – Strengthening economic links between businesses in PNG and
New Zealand. - Infrastructure Development – Supporting projects in renewable energy, road networks,
and communications. - Health and Education – Delivering programmes to improve healthcare and learning
opportunities. - Climate Change and Disaster Response – Partnering on Pacific climate resilience and
emergency relief efforts.
Prime Minister Marape highlighted recent high-level discussions between the two nations,
reinforcing their commitment to closer economic and security cooperation.
“New Zealand has been an important regional partner, and as PNG reaches this historic 50-year milestone, we look forward to deepening our cooperation, fostering trade opportunities, and working together for a secure and prosperous Pacific,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the significant contributions New Zealand has made to Papua New Guinea’s development, particularly in peace-building, economic growth, and
regional stability. He reaffirmed PNG’s commitment to working closely with New Zealand and other partners to promote stability and economic progress in the Pacific.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I extend my best wishes to the people of New Zealand on this special occasion,” he said.
“As PNG marks its 50th year of independence, we celebrate our shared history and look forward to even stronger ties with New Zealand.”
