PM Returns Home After Successful Visit to China

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, who embarked on a five-day diplomatic journey to Hong Kong and China, is set to return to Papua New Guinea on Friday, October 20, 2023.

During his visit, Prime Minister Marape engaged in high-level meetings and attended significant events aimed at strengthening the relationship between Papua New Guinea and China.

In Hong Kong, Prime Minister Marape commenced his visit by extending a courtesy call to Hon. John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the Republic of China. Additionally, he delivered a keynote address at the inaugural Papua New Guinea-Asia Investment Conference.

The Prime Minister continued his tour in Beijing, where he held vital discussions with China's top leaders. He met with Premier H.E. Li Qiang on Monday evening and then had an audience with President H.E. Xi Jinping on Tuesday morning.

One of the notable highlights of the visit was Prime Minister Marape's participation in the prestigious Third Belt and Road Forum for International Development, which took place on Tuesday and Wednesday. His insightful remarks were well-received by many world leaders in attendance.

The visit culminated with a visit to Guandong Province, further solidifying the bonds between Papua New Guinea and China.

Prime Minister Marape emphasised that the primary goal of the visit was to discuss matters of mutual interest and cooperation, highlighting the importance of trade and investment. He reiterated, "China understands our focus on promoting trade and investment, as exemplified during my meetings with Premier Li and President Xi, and they gave their full support towards downstream processing of our agriculture, forest, and fisheries resources."

He also underlined the potential for growth in trade between the two countries, expressing optimism about the expansion of exports and attracting foreign direct investments. "Our main focus was to expand the realms of trade and commerce as Papua New Guinea can't grow if we can't increase our exports, or attract foreign direct investments."

Prime Minister Marape, who sees himself as the "No. 1 diplomat and salesman" for his country, announced significant achievements in securing partnerships with four large Chinese companies for downstream processing of Papua New Guinea's resources. These partnerships aim to bolster job creation and stimulate economic growth in the nation.

Marape concluded by emphasising that the responsibility now falls on the people of Papua New Guinea to meet the growing demands of the Chinese market. He called upon the nation's citizens to work collectively to seize the opportunities presented by this successful diplomatic mission.

"I have done my job, and the onus is now on our ministries, departments, public servants and people to start producing more for the huge Chinese market," he stated.

“I give my assurance that more resources will be allocated to agriculture, forestry, and fisheries so that we can unbundle these sectors.”