PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, met with U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Her Excellency Ann Marie Yastishock, in a comprehensive discussion that reinforced the growing partnership between
Papua New Guinea and the United States. The meeting highlighted critical areas of cooperation, including security, environmental policy, economic growth, and regional stability.
Prime Minister Marape and Ambassador Yastishock reaffirmed their mutual commitment to
strengthening diplomatic ties as both countries prepare to celebrate 50 years of bilateral relations this year.
The Prime Minister remarked, “The United States has been a longstanding friend of Papua
New Guinea. Our partnership has spanned decades and has proven crucial in areas such as
defence, development, and climate action.”
The leaders reflected on the U.S.-PNG Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA), signed in 2023.
Ambassador Yastishock assured the Prime Minister that the agreement enjoys strong bipartisan support in Washington and will remain a cornerstone of the U.S.-PNG relationship.
“We have communicated the importance of the DCA to Washington, and we expect the partnership to grow stronger in the years ahead,” the Ambassador stated.
Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude for the DCA and its role in ensuring regional security.
“This agreement is not just about defence; it is about strengthening PNG’s role as a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific,” he said. The leaders discussed plans for future high-level military exchanges and joint exercises aimed at enhancing regional stability and resilience.
The leaders also touched on environmental issues, particularly PNG’s commitment to conservation and global climate goals. While addressing the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, Ambassador Yastishock emphasised that climate action remains a priority for the U.S. government.
“The United States remains committed to balancing climate action, energy security, and
economic prosperity. We look forward to finding practical ways to work together to achieve these shared goals,” the Ambassador said.
Prime Minister Marape highlighted PNG’s leadership in climate initiatives within the Pacific.
“Papua New Guinea is at the frontline of climate change. As custodians of vast forests and marine biodiversity, we are committed to partnering with global leaders like the United States to ensure sustainable solutions for our planet,” the Prime Minister stated.
The discussion also addressed economic development, with both leaders agreeing on the importance of increasing U.S. investment in PNG. Ambassador Yastishock acknowledged the untapped potential of PNG’s economy and committed to working with American businesses to explore investment opportunities.
“There is a significant amount of investment potential here, and we aim to encourage U.S. companies to explore these opportunities in collaboration with the PNG government,” she said.
Prime Minister Marape underscored the importance of sustainable economic partnerships, stating, “We welcome more U.S. investments in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and technology. PNG is open for business, and we are committed to creating an environment that attracts international investors.”
Recognising PNG’s unique geopolitical position as a bridge between the Pacific and Southeast Asia, the leaders discussed PNG’s aspirations to join ASEAN as a full member.
“Papua New Guinea’s geographic and strategic positioning makes it a natural link between Asia and the Pacific. We look forward to strengthening our role in regional organisations to promote collaboration and shared prosperity,” the Prime Minister said.
Ambassador Yastishock highlighted U.S. efforts to assist PNG in addressing human trafficking and improving its standing in the U.S. State Department’s Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report.
She expressed gratitude for PNG’s collaboration in providing critical data to improve its rankings.
“We are committed to working together to address human trafficking and other critical human rights issues,” she said.
As PNG and the United States prepare to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, Ambassador Yastishock extended an invitation from Washington for Prime Minister Marape to participate in commemorative events. She noted that senior U.S. officials are likely to visit PNG during this milestone year, further underscoring the importance of the partnership.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to deepening the U.S.-PNG relationship. Prime Minister Mar ape remarked, “This partnership has stood the test of time and remains vital to PNG’s development and regional leadership. I look forward to continuing our collaboration to build a prosperous and secure future for our people.”
