PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape yesterday reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding and rebranding Papua New Guinea’s image on the global stage, highlighting the nation’s intrinsic character of generosity, kindness, and unity.
Speaking passionately about the need to counteract negative perceptions resulting from isolated incidents of lawlessness reported in both formal media and social media, Prime Minister Marape emphasised the undeniable truth of Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage and resilient spirit.
“Papua New Guinea is a nation of over 800 tribes, each with its own unique traditions and customs. Yet, at our core, we are a people united by our intrinsic values of kindness, sharing, and hospitality. Our people are warm, loving, and caring – traits that define our very essence as Melanesians, and are enriched by the influences of Polynesian, Micronesian, and Asian cultures,” Prime Minister Marape expressed.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the complexities of building a modern nation from a tapestry of diverse tribes, stating, “The journey from our sovereignty in 1975 to where we stand today is a testament to our resilience and determination. Our confluence of tribes into one sovereign nation has not been without its challenges. We are still blending our many cultures into a unified society, and while tribal conflicts do exist, they are not a reflection of our overall character as a nation. Rather, they are the growing pains of a young nation striving to achieve harmony and prosperity.”
To address these challenges, Prime Minister Marape outlined a series of comprehensive measures aimed at empowering the youth and promoting economic growth. His administration is prioritising education, ensuring all children complete twelve years of basic education, and creating multiple pathways to opportunities through Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), labour mobility programmes in Australia and New Zealand, as well as vocational training both locally and internationally.
“We are investing in our people by providing them with skills certification, uplifting minimum wage structures, and supporting women and girls in business through targeted SME programmes. This is all part of our broader vision to ensure every citizen, particularly our youth, finds a meaningful pathway in life. We are paving the way for future generations to fulfil their potential and contribute positively to our nation,” Prime Minister Marape stated.
The Prime Minister also reassured international investors of the government’s dedication to creating a favourable environment for business and investment. “Despite negative headlines, investors operating in Papua New Guinea continue to enjoy healthy returns on their investments. We are committed to ensuring a safe, regulated, and welcoming
environment for all businesses, whether from the West, Asia, or our Pacific neighbours. We want our nation to be known not only for its natural beauty but also for its economic stability and business-friendly atmosphere.”
Highlighting the country’s growing potential in medical tourism, Prime Minister Marape noted that the country’s specialist hospital in Port Moresby is already attracting patients from neighbouring Pacific nations.
“With our focus on advanced cancer and heart treatments, we are positioning Papua New Guinea as a destination for high-quality healthcare within the region. Our healthcare infrastructure is improving, and we are dedicated to providing world-class medical services to our people and visitors alike,” he explained.