Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has clarified Papua New Guinea’s position on the evolving discussions surrounding the hosting of COP31, affirming that PNG fully trusts Australia’s judgement and diplomatic approach in guiding the final outcome.
Speaking to reporters, Prime Minister Marape reiterated that Papua New Guinea has consistently stood with Australia throughout the COP31 lobbying process, reflecting the two nations’ long-standing partnership and shared climate priorities within the Pacific region.
PNG Trusts Australia’s COP31 Leadership
“From the outset, Papua New Guinea conveyed that we fully trust Australia’s leadership, their lobbying strategy, and their ability to negotiate a fair and balanced outcome for the region,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He emphasised that PNG views Australia’s bid to host COP31 as a vehicle to elevate Pacific climate priorities on the global stage. “Our position was simple: we support Australia because we believe their leadership symbolises the collective aspirations of Oceania,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape noted that while Pacific nations face unique climate vulnerabilities, including rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events, supporting Australia provided the most effective pathway to ensure these challenges are recognised internationally.
Ensuring Pacific Priorities Are Protected
Prime Minister Marape said PNG advised Australia that, if any adjustment to hosting arrangements became necessary — including the possibility of Turkey hosting COP31 — the decision must not dilute Pacific priorities.
“If Australia needed to give way, we made it clear that COP31 must still visibly reflect the needs and priorities of Oceania, including the Pacific small island states, coastal communities, island communities, and Papua New Guinea,” he said.
He reiterated that PNG’s engagement in the COP31 process is guided by a commitment to ensure the Pacific voice remains central to global climate discussions and decision-making.
“Papua New Guinea is confident that through this partnership, the Pacific’s climate agenda will continue to be heard and acted upon at the highest international levels,” Prime Minister Marape said.