Prime Minister Hon. James Marape departed this morning for an official visit to New Zealand, accompanied by Minister for Higher Education, Hon. Kinoka Feo. Minister for International Trade and Investment Hon. Richard Maru and Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Justin Tkatchenko travelled ahead to New Zealand. The visit aims to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s relations with New Zealand on multiple fronts, including government-to-government and business-to-business partnerships.

“We will revisit our strategic partnership in terms of our government-to-government relations as well as our business-to-business relations,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “Minister Maru, as Minister for Trade, is also part of the delegation, along with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister for Higher Education. This is part of our strategic intention for greater rapport and partnership.”

Prime Minister Marape further revealed that his visit would include inspections of seasonal workplaces where Papua New Guineans are employed under work agreements. “We received requests that led to an agreement for Papua New Guineans to work in New Zealand. I will also be making some visits there. We’ll be back on Friday,” he said.

He also used the opportunity to encourage all Papua New Guineans to take personal responsibility for the nation’s progress. “You cannot expect only the Prime Minister, ministers, or politicians to work. Each and every one of us must contribute to the development of our country. As we face our 50th Independence anniversary this year, let’s embrace a strong work ethic. Find a space in your country, your locality, your community, and show leadership.”

The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of collective effort towards national development, stating: “Let’s all step up and take ownership of our nation’s progress. As leaders, we are doing our part; the rest of us in the community must do the same.”

He reiterated that the journey towards the nation’s 50th anniversary is a call for all citizens to exhibit leadership and take proactive steps to build the country. “Leadership can begin in your society and your community by reaching out and embracing women in our midst. They are not to be hurt, harmed, but rather, they are to be loved, cherished, and protected,” he said.

Prime Minister Marape urged everyone to contribute to creating safer and more inclusive communities. “I just want to appeal to all the boys and men in our country. If you have any issue, please address it responsibly, but let’s keep our women out of it. Let’s embrace and protect our women,” he pleaded.

He concluded by announcing that the Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso would act as Prime Minister during his absence, ensuring the country continues to function effectively.