Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko, MP, met today with respective government ministers and senior officials for a pre-briefing ahead of the Australia–Papua New Guinea Ministerial Forum (MINFO) to be held in Canberra.
Minister Tkatchenko, who will co-chair the Forum with Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong, highlighted the importance of MINFO as a central mechanism for strategic dialogue and bilateral coordination between the two countries.
“Over the years, MINFO has allowed ministers and officials from both governments to come together to assess the progress of ongoing cooperation arrangements, consult on new initiatives, and reaffirm our shared priorities going forward,” Minister Tkatchenko said.
The 2025 Ministerial Forum agenda reflects the growing breadth and maturity of the PNG–Australia relationship. Key discussion areas include the recently signed Papua New Guinea–Australia Mutual Defence Treaty, the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) and Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) programs, as well as other emerging areas of economic, social, and strategic cooperation.
Minister Tkatchenko underscored that the Forum continues to provide an opportunity for both governments to review progress on existing agreements, strengthen policy alignment, and identify practical measures to accelerate implementation across sectors such as security, employment, energy, and education.
The Minister also noted the importance of maintaining the Forum’s alternating hosting arrangement, which symbolizes the equal partnership between the two nations.
Papua New Guinea last hosted the Forum in 2024 at APEC Haus in Port Moresby, while Australia is hosting this year’s meeting in Canberra.
“This year’s Forum builds on the momentum of previous discussions and reflects our shared vision for a resilient, secure, and prosperous Pacific,” Minister Tkatchenko added.
The MINFO platform remains a cornerstone of Australia–Papua New Guinea’s Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership, ensuring that the bilateral relationship continues to evolve in line with regional priorities and the aspirations of both peoples.