Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Board and over 150 international delegates to Papua New Guinea this week, marking the start of a series of high-level global visits in the lead-up to the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
Prime Minister Marape said the convening of the 42nd GCF Board Meeting in Port Moresby underscores PNG’s growing global visibility as one of the world’s most biologically and culturally diverse nations — a country deeply committed to climate leadership and international cooperation.
“This year is not just about celebrating 50 years of independence — it’s about showing the world who we are,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We are the most linguistically and culturally diverse nation on Earth, and despite our challenges, we have preserved a functioning democracy for five decades. The world sees and respects that.” Global Attention on PNG’s Biodiversity and Peace Leadership
The Prime Minister said the presence of the Green Climate Fund Board links PNG directly to critical international climate conversations, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.
He also confirmed that the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, will visit PNG from 2–3 September 2025, paying tribute to the country’s 50th anniversary and its landmark Bougainville Peace Agreement, which remains globally recognised as one of the most successful post-conflict models. “The UN Secretary-General is visiting not only to recognise our 50 years as a UN member state but to pay respect to our peace process with Bougainville — a peaceful agreement that has held strong since 2001,” the Prime Minister said.
PNG to Host Global Leaders in September
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that several global heads of government and heads of state will be visiting Papua New Guinea during the independence season, including:
• The Prime Minister of Australia
• The President of Indonesia
• All Pacific leaders
• Senior representatives from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific
• A senior member of the British Royal Family during Independence Week
“We are proud to welcome the world to PNG. This shows our growing stature globally. From biodiversity to cultural strength, PNG is being seen, heard, and respected.”
Reform, Meritocracy, and the Next 50 Years
As part of PNG’s 50-year milestone, Prime Minister Marape also announced ongoing national reforms, including:
• A review of the last 50 years by an Independent Committee chaired by former Deputy Prime Minister Charles Abel
• A bold push for merit-based appointments and contracts across the public sector using artificial intelligence tools to ensure transparency and fairness
• Strengthening of the judiciary, executive and legislative arms of government, reinforcing the independence of national institutions
“After 50 years, we must look forward. We are laying the groundwork for a better, smarter, and more accountable PNG — using tools like AI to ensure meritocracy, and empowering our people through policy and reform,” the Prime Minister said.
International Engagements Continue
Prime Minister Marape also announced upcoming bilateral visits to:
• The United Kingdom (including a private audience with His Majesty King Charles III)
• The United States of America
• Japan
• South Korea (for APEC 2025)
“We are engaging the world. Our diplomatic calendar is full because PNG matters — we are being recognised for our natural wealth, our peace, and our democratic resilience,” he said.