By DALCY LULUA
Papua New Guinea has taken a significant step onto the global stage, with the National Capital District (NCD) and Madang officially becoming members of Sister Cities International, a prestigious global network that fosters partnerships between communities around the world.
This historic milestone marks the first time multiple PNG cities have joined the international organization together, signaling the country’s growing interest in building people-to-people diplomacy, cultural exchange, and sustainable development through global partnerships.
NCD Governor Powes Parkop welcomed the recognition, describing it as an opportunity for Port Moresby to learn from and contribute to the global community.
“Becoming a member of Sister Cities International allows us to connect with like-minded cities around the world. It opens the door to partnerships in tourism, education, environment, and youth development. It’s a proud moment for NCD and for our country,” Mr Parkop said.
Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa praised the move as a pathway to showcasing PNG’s cultural beauty and
expanding opportunities for the province.
“Madang is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Through Sister Cities International, we now have a platform to tell our story to the world and to learn from other cities that share our values and challenges,” Mr Pariwa stated.
Sister Cities International, founded in 1956 by US President Dwight D. Eisenhower, promotes peace and understanding through citizen diplomacy.
Member cities across more than 100 countries engage in exchange programs, development initiatives, and cross-cultural collaborations.
With NCD already launching its first sister-city partnership with Long Beach, California, and Madang eyeing future global ties, both cities are expected to take active roles in promoting international cooperation on behalf of PNG.
The inclusion of these two cities is a significant step toward strengthening Papua New Guinea’s international relationships and positioning its urban centers as active players in global development conversations.
Sister Cities International Chair elect Carla Capua welcomed NCD and Madang, saying: “We are excited to welcome the people of Port Moresby and Madang into our global family.
“Their membership adds great value to our network, and we look forward to the unique contributions they will bring,” Mr Capua said.
This bold move sets the stage for more provinces in Papua New Guinea to explore international partnerships and highlights the country’s readiness to engage in meaningful global collaboration.