Prime Minister James Marape has become the first head of government to formally congratulate Japan’s newly re-elected Prime Minister, His Excellency Shigeru Ishiba, following his return to office this week.
The two leaders held a warm and forward-looking bilateral meeting at the Japanese Prime Minister’s official residence in Tokyo on Tuesday, where they reaffirmed their countries’ strong diplomatic ties and discussed key areas for expanded cooperation, particularly in infrastructure, trade, and sustainable development.
“Japan has been a trusted partner for nearly 50 years, and we look forward to deepening this strategic relationship under Prime Minister Ishiba’s renewed leadership,” said Prime Minister Marape after the meeting.
Strengthening Development and Trade Ties
Among the highlights of the dialogue was Japan’s renewed commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure and economic development. This includes plans to upgrade Tokua Airport in East New Britain to meet international standards comparable to the recently completed Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport in Morobe Province — a flagship project co-funded by Japan.
The two leaders also discussed the strengthening of agricultural, fisheries, and forestry collaboration, with Japan pledging continued investment and technical support in these sectors.
Marape emphasised PNG’s ambition to grow its value-added exports and increase downstream processing in sectors such as agriculture, timber, and seafood — areas where Japanese technology and financing could play a catalytic role.
Engaging with Japan’s Private Sector
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Marape met with leading figures from Japan’s private sector, holding targeted discussions with representatives from the banking, mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and forestry industries. He presented Papua New Guinea as a stable, resource-rich investment destination, open to joint ventures and long-term partnerships.
“PNG is open for business, and we are looking to work with credible partners who share our vision for inclusive and sustainable growth,” Marape said during his engagement with investors.
A Historic Partnership Nearing 50 Years
The visit comes as PNG and Japan approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, which were formally established in 1975 — a year after the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) opened its first office in PNG.
Through JICA and other channels, Japan’s development assistance to PNG has exceeded K6 billion across a range of programs, including education, health, energy, and governance.
Today, Japan remains one of PNG’s largest trading partners:
Purchasing nearly 50% of mineral exports from the OK Tedi Mine,
Importing significant volumes of liquefied natural gas,
Sourcing cocoa, coffee, and up to 30% of PNG’s fish exports.
Looking Ahead
Marape concluded his Tokyo engagements by expressing gratitude to the Japanese Government, JICA, and the Japanese people for their long-standing partnership.
“This relationship is built on mutual respect, shared prosperity, and a commitment to the future. We are confident that under Prime Minister Ishiba’s continued leadership, our partnership will reach even greater heights,” he said.