PAPUA NEW GUINEA PRIME MINISTER AND NEW ZEALAND PRIM MINISTER MEET FOR RENEWED & ENHANCING TIES BETWEEN BOTH COUNTRIES THIS WEEK

On your left: PNG Prime Minister Hon James Marape while on your right is NZ Prime Minister Hon Christopher Luxon

The Pacific Guadian

Port Moresby

26th MARCH, 2025

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Hon James Marape, who has been in office since May 2019 and was re-elected in 2022, embarked on a three-day state visit to New Zealand. This visit is notable as his first official engagement in New Zealand following his re-election, signalling a renewed commitment to enhancing ties. The current date, March 25, 2025, at 03:27 PM PDT, aligns with the ongoing nature of this visit, with meetings scheduled to discuss critical areas of cooperation.

The visit involved a bilateral meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Hon Christopher Luxon, focusing on trade, investment, agriculture, fisheries, education, and security. A key outcome was the signing of a refreshed Statement of Partnership (2025-2029), updating the previous agreement from 2021-2024 signed under former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. This refreshed partnership aims to foster practical and meaningful outcomes for PNG's development, especially as both nations approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in September 2025.

Some of the photos reference their meeting

The meeting also touched on regional issues, including climate change and Pacific Islands Forum unity, reflecting a broader commitment to Pacific cooperation. An unexpected detail is the extension of the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, allowing more PNG workers to participate in New Zealand's horticulture industry, potentially boosting economic opportunities for PNG citizens.