Luxon and Marape Strengthen NZ-PNG Ties with New Strategic Partnership

The bilateral meeting marked a key moment in New Zealand–Papua New Guinea relations, with both leaders committing to deeper collaboration in areas ranging from trade and education to climate change and security.

In a significant step forward for Pacific regional cooperation, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape met in Wellington today, reaffirming the strong and enduring relationship between the two nations. The bilateral meeting marked a key moment in New Zealand–Papua New Guinea relations, with both leaders committing to deeper collaboration in areas ranging from trade and education to climate change and security.

A Renewed Vision for the Bilateral Relationship

At the heart of the visit was the signing of a refreshed Statement of Partnership, a foundational agreement that outlines a shared vision for the future of the New Zealand–Papua New Guinea relationship. The agreement comes ahead of a major milestone — the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in September 2025.

“This updated Statement of Partnership instils a new desire to achieve practical and meaningful outcomes that will contribute to Papua New Guinea’s development,” said Prime Minister Marape. “We are entering a new era of cooperation — one that is strategic, more focused, and mutually beneficial.”

The statement emphasises key sectors such as education, climate change resilience, agriculture, fisheries, public sector reform, trade and investment, and regional security. The new framework also introduces structured and more frequent dialogue at the leadership, ministerial, and official levels, aiming to ensure that bilateral cooperation remains dynamic and responsive to shared challenges.

NZ$1 Million Investment in Institutional Linkages

Further cementing New Zealand’s commitment, Prime Minister Luxon announced a NZ$1 million investment into building institutional linkages with Papua New Guinea. The funding will support initiatives aimed at strengthening Papua New Guinea’s public sector — a key focus for the Marape government.

“This investment is a response to Papua New Guinea’s aspirations to build stronger, more resilient public institutions,” Luxon said. “It will support areas like disaster preparedness, state-owned enterprise governance, and public service capability — ensuring our partnership delivers real and lasting impact for communities on the ground.”

This funding could, for example, enhance cooperation between New Zealand’s emergency management agencies and their Papua New Guinean counterparts, supporting improved disaster risk reduction and response systems in a region increasingly affected by climate change-related events.

Trade, Security, and Regional Priorities

During the bilateral talks, the two leaders explored new opportunities to boost trade and economic ties. With Papua New Guinea’s growing economy and New Zealand’s expertise in agriculture, fisheries, and clean technology, both leaders see potential for increased business and investment.

Security and defence cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions, with reaffirmed commitments to peace, stability, and resilience in the Pacific. Both countries pledged continued support for Pacific Islands Forum unity and efforts to address regional challenges, including the climate crisis and geostrategic competition.

“New Zealand deeply values our friendship with Papua New Guinea, a crucial partner in the Pacific,” said Prime Minister Luxon. “We look forward to continuing to work alongside Papua New Guinea on regional priorities, including climate change, economic resilience, and maintaining the unity of the Pacific family.”

High-Level PNG Delegation Tours New Zealand

Prime Minister Marape is accompanied on his official visit by Papua New Guinea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Justin Tkatchenko. The delegation’s itinerary includes a range of engagements across New Zealand, including business and community events in Wellington, Blenheim, Hamilton, and Auckland.

These visits aim to promote people-to-people connections, foster dialogue with New Zealand’s Pacific communities, and explore partnership opportunities with local businesses and institutions.

The delegation will wrap up its New Zealand visit on 28 March, following a series of meetings designed to strengthen economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties.

Looking Ahead: A Stronger, More Strategic Partnership

As New Zealand and Papua New Guinea prepare to celebrate five decades of diplomatic relations later this year, today’s meeting signals a deepened commitment to partnership based on mutual respect, shared values, and a collective vision for a prosperous and resilient Pacific.

The leaders’ shared message was clear: the partnership is not only enduring but evolving — with a new focus on tangible outcomes that benefit both countries and the wider region.