By ESWIN PLESIO
PAPUA New Guinea today marked a major milestone in environmental protection with the launch of the inaugural PNG Nature Pact Workshop at APEC Haus, aimed at safeguarding the nation’s forests, wildlife and natural environment.
The three-day workshop brings together government officials, development partners, conservation groups and stakeholders to discuss how PNG can better protect its rich biodiversity while creating sustainable economic opportunities for its people.
Speaking during the opening of the workshop, Prime Minister James Marape described the event as a ‘clear sign’ of the growing partnership between Papua New Guinea, the European Union (EU) and the Government of France in tackling environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development.
“This is an indication of the partnership between PNG and the European Union and the Government of France,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The workshop is backed by a major financial and technical support from the European Union and France through the European Union Forestry, Climate Change and Biodiversity Programme. The support will help turn the goals of the PNG Nature Pact into practical actions on the ground, including rainforest protection, biodiversity conservation and climate change initiatives.
Papua New Guinea is home to some of the world’s largest remaining tropical rainforests and an extraordinary range of plant and animal species. Through the Nature Pact, the country aims to strengthen its biodiversity policies while ensuring conservation efforts also support communities and economic growth.
Prime Minister Marape said protecting PNG’s natural environment is not only a national responsibility but also a global one, given the country’s significant contribution to preserving biodiversity and storing carbon in its forests.
He welcomed the support from the European Union and France, saying the partnership demonstrates international confidence in PNG’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Over the next three days, participants will discuss practical ways to implement the Nature Pact, improve coordination among stakeholders, and identify investment opportunities that support both conservation and sustainable development.
The workshop marks the beginning of what stakeholders hope will be a stronger and more coordinated national effort to protect Papua New Guinea’s unique natural heritage for future generations while creating lasting benefits for its people.