Prime Minister Hon. James Marape will travel to Fiji today to attend the annual Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders’ Summit, reaffirming Papua New Guinea’s continued leadership and commitment to Melanesian solidarity, diplomacy, and cooperation.

This year’s summit, chaired by Fiji, brings together leaders from the MSG member countries— Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and the FLNKS (Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front of New Caledonia) — to discuss a range of shared priorities including climate action, trade, regional security, and decolonisation efforts.

“Papua New Guinea is a founding and senior member of the Melanesian Spearhead Group and remains steadfast in advancing Melanesian cooperation,” Prime Minister Marape said ahead of departure. “This summit allows us to unite around our common challenges and aspirations, and speak with a stronger collective voice as a region.”

The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) was established in 1986 to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties among Melanesian nations. It has since become a key platform for collaboration on trade, sustainable development, regional diplomacy, and cultural identity.

Prime Minister Marape is scheduled to return to Port Moresby on Monday evening, 23 June 2025, following the conclusion of the meeting.

During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso will assume responsibilities as Acting Prime Minister. Prime Minister Marape expressed his full confidence in the Deputy Prime Minister to lead government business during this short period.

“I have every confidence in Deputy Prime Minister Rosso to maintain stability and continuity while I attend this important regional meeting,” Prime Minister Marape said.