Prime Minister Marape Rallies Support for Team PNG’s Pacific Games Journey

The National Government is fully committed to assembling a determined and formidable team of athletes for the highly-anticipated 2023 Pacific Games, scheduled to be held in Honiara, Solomon Islands, from November 19 to December 2, 2023.

Prime Minister James Marape, a passionate advocate for the unifying power of sports, emphasised the remarkable ability of sports to unite nations, forge friendships among youth and athletes, and promote healthy lifestyles.

“PNG is resolutely dedicated to sending a robust contingent to the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara, with a clear objective of achieving medal-winning performances,” Prime Minister Marape stated.

“We wholeheartedly endorse our team and call upon our athletes, Team PNG management, and the PNG Olympic Committee to prepare diligently, upholding our nation’s honor.”

Prime Minister Marape made this announcement during the launch of the 2023 Prime Minister’s Corporate Golf Challenge today, a fundraising initiative aimed at garnering support for Team PNG in their quest for success at the Pacific Games. The primary aim of this event is to raise awareness and rally the corporate sector to contribute to Team PNG’s journey.

While the National Government continues to be a pivotal contributor to the team’s preparations and participation in the Honiara games, Prime Minister Marape commended corporate organisations for their active involvement. He expressed his delight at the growing number of participants in this year’s Prime Minister’s Corporate Golf Challenge, underscoring the significance of collective support.

“The National Government’s commitment to our team heading to Honiara is unwavering. It’s heartening to witness corporate organisations stepping forward to offer their support,” noted Prime Minister Marape.

“We eagerly anticipate PNG sending a formidable team that will showcase our talent and spirit at the Pacific Games.”

In addition to backing Team PNG, the PNG government has been actively assisting the Government and people of Solomon Islands in their preparations to host the Pacific Games. PNG has deployed a contingent of police officers to Honiara to collaborate with local Solomon Islands police in enhancing security and maintaining law and order during the event.

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the strong bond between PNG and Solomon Islands and assured that PNG’s team would arrive in full strength, a reflection of the nation’s size and pride.

As part of his appeal to the youth, Prime Minister Marape encouraged active participation in sports and the pursuit of virtuous lives.

Prime Minister Marape expressed gratitude to the corporate organisations that have sponsored teams and taken part in the PM’s Corporate Golf Challenge. Similar events are planned in other regions, with corporate organisations and golfers in Lae, Morobe province, gearing up to host a PM’s Corporate Golf Challenge to further raise funds for Team PNG’s journey to the Pacific Games.