PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape departed today for Palau, where he will attend the inauguration of President Surangel Whipps Jr. He will return to the country on Friday, January 17, 2025, before departing for the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.
The visit underscores Papua New Guinea’s commitment to strengthening regional
partnerships with Pacific Island nations, particularly in the areas of fisheries and economic
cooperation.
Accompanying the Prime Minister is Fisheries Minister Hon. Jelta Wong and National
Capital District Governor Hon. Powes Parkop. Minister Wong will participate in discussions
around regional fisheries management and other regional fisheries frameworks.
The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of working with Pacific nations to
sustainably manage tuna resources and promote regional economic growth, particularly
through cooperative fisheries agreements.
“These Pacific Island nations may have limited landmass, but they are significant in terms
of their maritime resources. Papua New Guinea stands ready to offer special economic
zones to support fisheries processing and other industries that can benefit the region,”
said Prime Minister Marape.
PNG plays a key role in the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA), a leading regional
body that focuses on the sustainable management of tuna stocks in the Western and
Central Pacific Ocean.
Prime Minister Marape further noted the cultural and historical connections between PNG
and Palau, adding that many PNG families have ties to Palau.
Following his visit to Palau, Prime Minister Marape will return to the country before traveling to Davos to attend the WEF.
The Prime Minister has been invited by Dr. Klaus Schwab, the founder of the WEF, to participate in discussions on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on global economies.
“It is a privilege for Papua New Guinea to be invited to such a prestigious forum, where global leaders gather to discuss the future of technology, innovation, and sustainable development.
Our presence at the WEF demonstrates that PNG is ready to engage in global conversations
and contribute to shaping the future,” said Prime Minister Marape.
