Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has described New Zealand as “steady and reliable” in its partnership with Papua New Guinea during his meeting with New Zealand High Commissioner, H.E Peter Zwart, this morning.

The bilateral meeting saw the two leaders discuss common issues of mutual interest between the two countries, New Zealand’s involvement in community-development projects throughout the country, ongoing technical support to the revitalization of the Papua New Guinea public service, and Bougainville.

In the next three years, New Zealand expects to invest some K350 million into projects and programs in PNG, including the rehabilitation of Lae market which has started.

Prime Minister Marape thanked High Commissioner Zwart and the New Zealand Government for the assistance, and continued his call for technical assistance in the area of expertise to support the public service further.

He acknowledged the similarity of indigenous cultures between Papua New Guinea and the Maori, and appealed for New Zealand’s assistance in supporting the growth of agriculture in the country, while inviting New Zealand companies to extend their investments in PNG.

The Prime Minister highlighted to Mr Zwart the country’s upcoming 50th Independence anniversary next year 2025, revealing that the Government was planning a special reconciliatory event for Bougainville “to bring closure”, which, he said, New Zealand would have a special role to play in because of its continued involvement in the Bougainville peace process.