Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has returned to Papua New Guinea following a productive two-week official visit to the United States and United Kingdom. During the trip, the Prime Minister engaged in high-level discussions that advanced PNG’s national interests across critical areas including climate action, investment, resource development, defence, and economic resilience.
Speaking at a press conference at Jacksons International Airport, Prime Minister Marape described the mission as “strategic and future-focused,” aligned with the Government’s agenda to elevate Papua New Guinea’s global standing as it marks its 50th year of Independence.
“This trip was about building bridges—spiritual, economic, and diplomatic,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“We are returning with stronger partnerships, renewed investor confidence, and clear signals of international trust in Papua New Guinea’s future.”
SDA 62nd General Conference – St. Louis (5 July 2025)
The Prime Minister made a brief address at the 62nd General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, recognising the vital role of churches in fostering national unity and development. He thanked the global SDA leadership for their ongoing partnership with Papua New Guinea.
Audience with His Majesty King Charles III – Gloucestershire (7 July 2025)
At a bilateral meeting with King Charles III at Highgrove Estate, Prime Minister Marape highlighted PNG’s leadership in climate change mitigation and rainforest preservation. He described PNG’s tropical forests as “oxygen banks and seed reserves” essential for global climate balance and advocated for stronger integration of Indigenous knowledge in conservation policies. The meeting underscored shared values between PNG and the UK as PNG approaches its 50th Independence anniversary.
Executive Meeting with ExxonMobil – Houston (9 July 2025)
In Houston, the Prime Minister met with ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods, alongside executives from TotalEnergies and Kumul Petroleum, to discuss the sequencing of key resource projects including Papua LNG, P’nyang LNG, and the Wildebeest gas field. All parties reaffirmed their commitment to coordinated development ensuring:
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Long-term investor confidence
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Infrastructure continuity
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Job creation for Papua New Guineans over the next 10–15 years
The Prime Minister also praised the increasing number of Papua New Guineans employed at ExxonMobil’s headquarters, attributing this to successful localisation strategies.
Condolences to Texas Flood Victims
While in Texas, Prime Minister Marape extended heartfelt condolences to President Donald Trump, Governor Greg Abbott, and the people of Texas following devastating floods in Central Texas that claimed over 100 lives. On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, he paid tribute to emergency responders and expressed solidarity with the United States during this difficult time.
Strategic Bilateral Talks – Washington, D.C. (10 July 2025)
In Washington, Prime Minister Marape held high-level discussions with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and other officials. Key topics included:
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Trade and investment opportunities in fisheries, hospitality, and energy
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Defence and maritime cooperation, including fuel security and surveillance
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Commitment to Pacific regional stability and sovereignty
The United States confirmed its participation in PNG’s 50th Independence celebrations, with both countries agreeing to deepen collaboration through regional joint ventures.
White House Bilateral with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance
In a landmark event, Prime Minister Marape became the first PNG leader to hold formal bilateral talks at the White House with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance. Discussions focused on:
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Strengthening democratic and Christian values
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Enhancing economic cooperation and regional security
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Expanding U.S. investments in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and tourism
The Prime Minister thanked major U.S. companies such as ExxonMobil, Barrick, and Hilton for their contributions and encouraged further investment in PNG’s rural economy. Preparations are underway for a future meeting with President Trump aimed at elevating PNG-U.S. relations to a strategic partnership.
Wafi-Golpu Project Negotiations – Newmont Mining (Washington, D.C.)
Prime Minister Marape formally presented PNG’s position on the Wafi-Golpu Project to Newmont Mining executives, urging them to return to Port Moresby for detailed negotiations. He emphasized the need for an agreement that delivers long-term economic and social benefits, particularly for landowners in Morobe Province.
High-Level Economic Engagement with IMF – Washington, D.C. (11 July 2025)
The Prime Minister held strategic talks with IMF Deputy Managing Director Bo Li and senior officials, reaffirming PNG’s economic reform agenda and outlook. Key outcomes included:
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Projected GDP growth of 4.7% for 2025
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Balanced budget target by 2027
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Debt-free status by 2033
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IMF contributor status by 2045
Marape presented progress on PNG’s 33-point home-grown reform program, highlighting exchange rate stability, growth in agriculture and fisheries revenues, responsible debt management, and the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund framework.
Call for Dedicated IMF Facility for Pacific Island States (SIDS)
Advocating on behalf of the Pacific region, Prime Minister Marape urged the IMF to create a Special Support Mechanism for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) facing climate-related and external economic shocks. He proposed grants and concessional loans focused on climate resilience, food and fuel security, and disaster adaptation.
“These nations are punished for crises they didn’t cause,” the Prime Minister said, calling for greater equity and justice in global development finance. The IMF acknowledged the proposal and committed to reviewing its support frameworks for the Pacific.
Looking Ahead: PNG at 50
“As we prepare to celebrate 50 years of Independence, we do so knowing the next 50 years will be shaped by our discipline, reform, and unity,” Prime Minister Marape stated.
“Papua New Guinea is no longer on the sidelines—we are at the table, leading conversations on climate, trade, and investment with confidence and clarity.”