PRIME Minister James Marape has opened the 32nd Papua New Guinea–Australia Ministerial Forum at APEC Haus, calling for a shift from traditional development assistance towards greater trade, investment and economic integration.
Held a year after the previous forum in Canberra, the meeting is the first ministerial-level gathering since the two countries’ Mutual Defence Treaty entered into force in July.
Marape welcomed the Australian delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, noting that bilateral trade reached approximately A$10 billion in 2025.
He noted that the entry into force of the Pukpuk Treaty on 8 July 2026 established Papua New Guinea’s first formal defence alliance and Australia’s first new alliance in more than 70 years.
“The Treaty reflects the extraordinary trust between our nations, and respects our sovereignty, independence and national interests,” PM Marape stated.
The Prime Minister said the security agreement complies with PNG’s non-aligned foreign policy and is designed to improve domestic defence capabilities rather than target external nations.
“Our alliance with Australia is not directed against any other country. It is about protecting our sovereignty, strengthening our national defence capabilities and contributing to a peaceful, secure and prosperous Pacific,” he emphasized.
He detailed ongoing bilateral programs, noting Australian financial allocations of more than A$150 million for education and skills development, alongside A$25 million dedicated to national disaster preparedness amid active El Niño climate cycles.
He also highlighted additional Australian aid that is currently directed to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary for infrastructure, training, and the acquisition of two Bell 412 helicopters to strengthen domestic law enforcement.
Looking toward future economic cooperation, Prime Minister Marape invited further Australian private sector investment across primary industries including agriculture, fisheries, forestry, manufacturing, energy, and tourism.
He noted that as PNG enters its second 50 years of independence, “we want our relationship with Australia to evolve further from traditional development assistance towards trade, investment, employment and shared economic prosperity”.
PM Marape stressed that future bilateral relations should focus on labour mobility programs, expanded market access for small and medium enterprises, and structural support for public infrastructure, including Air Niugini’s ongoing fleet modernization.
He concluded by urging delegates to make the forum a platform for practical results, stating, “Our people must see the benefits of this relationship through better schools, stronger health services, safer communities, more employment opportunities, and improved living standards”.
The ministerial forum will continue throughout the week to evaluate existing security, health, and economic commitments while establishing strategic benchmarks ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 2027 National General Election.