PAPUA New Guinea and New Zealand have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership and shared commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation at the 5th PNG–NZ High-Level Consultation, held at the Sheraton Hotel in Port Moresby on 5th October 2026.
Co-chaired by Mr. Elias Wohengu, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Papua New Guinea, and Mr. Bede Corry, Chief Executive of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of New Zealand, the annual consultation provided an important platform to take stock of progress, advance priority initiatives, and align strategic objectives.
The co-chairs acknowledged the progress achieved across key sectors under the Statement of Partnership (2025–2029) implementation matrix, with New Zealand extending an invitation to host the next High-Level Consultation in New Zealand.
Discussions on PNG’s Foreign Policy White Paper underscored the importance of realigning diplomatic engagements to directly support PNG’s domestic economic targets under the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV).
PNG requested targeted New Zealand assistance spanning security, education, fisheries, agriculture, ICT, cattle sector development, and retired public sector expertise to support State-Owned Enterprises.
In turn, New Zealand outlined its strategic outlook focused on effective international rules, strong economic connections, and regional stability.
Both delegations exchanged views on pressing regional and global developments, including shifting development financing trends and the security implications of China’s recent ballistic missile launch into the Pacific, while highlighting the central role of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Pacific Islands Forum architecture in maintaining regional solidarity.
To enhance sub-national governance, PNG proposed that the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) establish a formal technical cooperation framework with counterpart agencies in New Zealand. This initiative aims to support capacity building across provincial and local-level governments, foster sister-city partnerships, launch leadership exchanges forward officials, and engage the diaspora.
PNG also presented critical immigration and mobility proposals, requesting a dedicated PNG migration pathway, a Working Holiday Visa Agreement for citizens aged 18 to 35, a Visa Waiver Agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders, and an expansion of Manaaki Scholarships into specialized disciplines such as biosecurity, sports science, and early childhood education.
Economic ties were a major focus of the meeting, with both sides committing to the active implementation of the multi-year Economic Plan of Action. PNG presented several trade and investment initiatives, including downstream processing in coffee, expanding market access for gourmet cocoa and fresh produce, biosecurity alignment for Ox & Palm exports, and an MoU between the PNG Forestry Authority and Te Uru Rākau for sustainable forest management.
Discussions also addressed an increased Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) worker intake, supported by Air Niugini’s launch of direct Port Moresby–Auckland flights on 17th November 2026, alongside proposals to review the 2012 Double Taxation Agreement, provide tax technical assistance, and reopen the PNG–NZ Business Council office in Port Moresby.
In peace and security, the two nations reaffirmed their strong defence partnership under the Statement of Intent on Defence Cooperation (2026–2029), which supports joint operational readiness, maritime surveillance, disaster response, and the Bougainville peace process.
PNG confirmed it will formally request New Zealand’s assistance for its upcoming national elections, including security support involving police personnel from Pacific neighbors.
On climate change and the environment, both co-chairs stressed the need for simplified access to international climate finance and practical initiatives in climate-resilient agriculture.
New Zealand highlighted its Pacific Fuel Technical Advisory facility and renewable energy projects, while PNG agreed to have its Marine Scientific Committee review a proposed fee waiver for New Zealand ocean research under the Argo Float Programme.