PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape acknowledged the government’s shortcomings in meeting its obligations, which have hindered Papua New Guinea’s development and economic progress.
Speaking at the PNG Update forum today, Prime Minister Marape discussed the challenges facing the nation’s economy, citing several factors that have contributed to its current poor state.
“For the past 27 years, every two years, we’ve been forming and changing governments,” PM Marape explained.
He noted that this frequent change in leadership, coupled with a lack of effective policies to guide economic growth, has exacerbated the country’s challenges.
“By the time we reached 2002, our GDP hadn’t surpassed K20 billion. Our population had grown, and there was a loss of jobs, leaving many unsatisfied,” Marape stated.
Despite these challenges, the Prime Minister expressed his commitment to addressing these issues. He is confident that the current policies in place will eventually yield positive outcomes.
The Prime Minister also commended the Chancellor of UPNG, faculty members, and the university for their efforts in hosting the conference, which he believes offers valuable lessons for the present generation.
“My task is to ensure we remain one people and that economic activity is accessible to everyone, as long as the government allows people to participate,” Marape said.
He further emphasized that, in his view, the growth of lawlessness is one of the main barriers to development in the country.
He urged the citizens to respect the rule of law and to treat their fellow men and women with respect, stating that this would lead to progress in their communities.
