PAPUA NEW GUINEA Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has set his sights on engaging in discussions with Japanese Prime Minister Hon. Fumio Kishida regarding the Papua LNG project, signaling a strategic move to bolster international partnerships for the nation’s economic development.
In a recent presentation on April 30th, Prime Minister Marape articulated his intention to extend formal invitations to Japanese contractors for bidding on the construction of the Papua LNG project. This announcement coincided with his acceptance of an invitation to attend the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM 10) in Tokyo from July 16th to 18th, 2024, alongside Prime Minister Kishida.
During a small ceremony, Special Advisor to the Japanese Prime Minister, Mr. Hitotaka Ishihara, personally delivered the official invitation to Prime Minister Marape. The meeting between PM Marape and Mr. Ishihara also emphasized the mutual desire for both leaders to hold a bilateral meeting on the margins of PALM 10, underscoring the significance of Japan’s engagement in the region.
PM Marape expressed appreciation for Japan’s longstanding support and assistance to PNG’s development efforts, highlighting the importance of fostering strong diplomatic ties between the two nations. Japan has been hosting PALM meetings since 1997, providing a valuable platform for leaders from Pacific Island countries and regions to exchange views on regional issues and collaborate on common challenges.
This year’s PALM meeting will focus on strengthening cooperative relationships and addressing shared challenges, including those related to small size, land distribution, distance from major markets, and vulnerability to natural disasters and climate change. PM Marape’s acceptance of the invitation reflects his commitment to advancing PNG’s interests on the international stage and leveraging partnerships for sustainable development.
Representatives from the 18 Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) members, including PNG and other Pacific Island nations, as well as key stakeholders from Australia and New Zealand, will be in attendance, highlighting the significance of PALM 10 as a forum for regional cooperation and dialogue.
As PNG looks to accelerate progress on the Papua LNG project and foster greater collaboration with international partners, Prime Minister Marape’s proactive engagement with Japan underscores the country’s commitment to harnessing its natural resources for economic growth and development. With PALM 10 on the horizon, PNG stands poised to deepen its engagement with Japan and strengthen its position as a key player in the Asia-Pacific region.
Prime Minister James Marape’s proactive engagement with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida regarding the Papua LNG project signifies Papua New Guinea’s commitment to fostering international partnerships for economic development. Marape’s intention to invite Japanese contractors for bidding underscores the nation’s determination to accelerate progress on the project.
During the presentation, Marape expressed his intention to extend formal invitations to Japanese contractors for bidding on the construction of the Papua LNG project. This move highlights PNG’s recognition of Japan’s expertise and resources in the energy sector and signals an eagerness to harness Japanese involvement to propel the project forward. Marape’s proactive approach aligns with PNG’s broader strategy to attract foreign investment and expertise to capitalize on the nation’s vast natural resources.
As PNG prepares to attend the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM 10) in Tokyo, the stage is set for meaningful discussions on strengthening cooperative relationships and addressing common challenges. Japan’s long-standing support for PNG’s development efforts further underscores the importance of diplomatic ties between the two nations. With representatives from 18 Pacific Island nations and key stakeholders in attendance, PALM 10 presents an invaluable opportunity for PNG to deepen its engagement with Japan and consolidate its position as a key player in the Asia-Pacific region.
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