Prime Minister Hon. James Marape extends a warm welcome to the 150 international delegates hailing from 14 countries who are set to participate in the upcoming World Indigenous Business Forum (WIBF). The event is scheduled to take place from October 24 to 26, 2023, in Port Moresby, with a total of 500 delegates anticipated.

Prime Minister Marape also extended a warm welcome to World Indigenous Business Forum executives and thanked them for their confidence in Papua New Guinea to host the 2023 event.

The World Indigenous Business Forum presents a unique platform for cross-cultural exchange and economic collaboration, offering the chance to tap into the vibrant and diverse market landscape of Papua New Guinea.

In addition to the international attendees, the Prime Minister expressed his enthusiasm for local businesses taking the opportunity to showcase their products, forge global connections, establish partnerships, and explore market prospects among the diverse array of countries represented at the forum.

This prestigious event has been organised by the Government under the leadership of Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru, in collaboration with the National Capital District Commission (NCDC). Prime Minister Marape commended the efforts of Minister Maru and NCD Governor, Hon. Powes Parkop, along with his dedicated team from ‘Amazing Port Moresby.’

The World Indigenous Business Forum will commence with a grand opening ceremony hosted by NCDC and the Amazing Port Moresby team at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, from 5pm to 9pm. The official forum proceedings will be inaugurated on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, by Prime Minister Marape. The event will culminate with an official closing ceremony, orchestrated by NCDC and the Amazing Port Moresby team, at Ela Beach on Thursday, October 26, 2023, from 6pm to 9pm.

Prime Minister Marape, while extending his warm welcome to the international delegates, extended an invitation for them to consider investing in Papua New Guinea.

He remarked, “I welcome you all to the most diverse indigenous country in the world, a place that combines the rich cultural tapestry of Melanesian, Polynesian, and Micronesian traditions with a vibrant embrace of Christianity.

“Our country boasts an extraordinary range of natural beauty, from stunning forest landscapes to pristine sandy beaches, valleys, and majestic mountains.

“We are blessed with an unparalleled marine biodiversity, serving as the world’s foremost breeding ground for tuna, supplying 60 percent of the global market.

“Our potential in agriculture is unparalleled, and our tourism industry is yet to be fully explored.

“We stand as the Pacific’s gateway to the flourishing Asian market.

“We extend a warm invitation to indigenous business delegates from around the world to explore the opportunities and partnerships available in Papua New Guinea.”