By Orchy Rex
Papua New Guinea and Indonesia took a step forward in their economic and diplomatic relations yesterday with the launching of the Papua New Guinea Indonesia Business Council Inc 2025 at Parliament Haus.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape led the occasion, highlighting the importance of the partnership and what it means for PNG’s future growth.
“This collaboration between PNG and Indonesia is finally done and dusted and we’re looking forward to the positive impacts this will bring,” said Prime Minister Marape.
“Indonesia doesn’t need PNG to survive – they’re the 10th biggest economy globally – but we thank the Indonesian government for accepting us and agreeing to become our partners,” the Prime Minister added.
He urged Papua New Guineans to stop hiding behind the idea that PNG is still a young nation and take bold steps forward. “For fifty years, they’ve made an astronomical jump from colonization, yet we’re still hiding behind the slogan we’re still a young nation,” he said.
The Prime Minister also spoke about improving trade policies and infrastructure to boost cross-border economic activities. “We will ensure travelling into and out of PNG and Indonesia is open through the Momase National Highway that will be built under the Connect PNG program,” he said.
The event was also attended by Indonesian Ambassador to PNG, His Excellency Amb. Andriana Supandy, who said the occasion marked a major milestone in PNG-Indonesia relations.
“This event reflects how far we have progressed, setting aside differences and focusing on building our economic ties for the benefit of our people,” said Ambassador Supandy.
“As the country is looking forward to celebrate its 50th Independence Anniversary, Indonesia is ready to stand with Papua New Guinea shoulder to shoulder.”
Secretary for the Department of International Trade and Investment, Mrs. Jacinta Warakai-Manua, also expressed her department’s support for the new business council.
“We’re very happy and supportive of the work of this council in your efforts in growing the economy of this country,” she said.
“The Department is encouraged by this launching as it will help us achieve one of our key goals of growing and facilitating trade and investment with Indonesia beyond borders,” she said.