United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and PNG Prime Minister James Marape have signed a Framework for Strategic Cooperation, underscoring mutual priorities for the next 50 years of the US- PNG bilateral relationship.
The signing of the framework reflects the enduring partnership between our nations and highlights the wide range of sectors for collaboration.
Admiral Paparo, Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Ann Marie Yastishock, witnessed the signing.
“The United States has stood with PNG since day one, in 1975,” said U.S. Ambassador Yastishock. “This framework builds on five decades of cooperation based on shared values and a shared vision of the future.”
The framework encompasses economic, commercial, and digital collaboration, as well as critical minerals and infrastructure development.
Acknowledging the significant US private sector investment in the extractives sector, the framework highlights cooperation in critical minerals extraction and processing, with a focus on sustainable development, investment competitiveness, and practices to benefit the local communities in which companies operate.
In addition to reaffirming how existing U.S. companies can contribute to PNG’s overall development, the framework states both nations will work together increasing U.S. investment in PNG, by collaborating on policies aimed to attract greater US investment, including an increased focus on the use of trusted technology and strengthened cybersecurity practices.
The document reaffirms US commitments, including the 2023 Defense Cooperation and Ship rider Agreements, the reoccurring Strategic Partnership Dialogue first held in Washington, DC, in 2024, and existing defense, maritime security and law enforcement capacity building and training programs.
“This Framework for Strategic Cooperation reflects the United States’ commitment to a comprehensive partnership with Papua New Guinea, It not only strengthens our defense ties but also fosters economic growth, innovation, and shared prosperity,” Deputy Secretary Landau said.
Mr Landau’s visit is to commemorate PNG’s Golden Jubilee and to honor 50 years of US-Papua New Guinea bilateral relations.
The bond between the two nations traces back to World War II, and the United States was among the first to recognize Papua New Guinea’s statehood.
On September 16, 1975, US Ambassador Mary Olmsted stood in Parliament representing one of only eight nations that formally recognized PNG’s sovereignty.
I know Trump hasbfulled the USA out of the Paris Agreement but on a bilateral level, PNG should get the USA and Australia to invest in protection of our forests and seas to meet global climate targets. There is too much emphasis on security around military threats which is less important for PNG.
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