Prime Minister James Marape

Marape emphasized that PNG's participation in this global event will have a significant impact, leading to diversification in the export market and an inflow of capital.

"This presents a remarkable opportunity for us to promote our nation as a prime tourism and investment destination.

“It will also enable us to showcase the high-quality products that we are ready to export to the world, including our renowned coffee, cocoa, vanilla, kava, taro, marine products, unique items from our fashion industry, and many more.”

During the joint press conference on 6 November 2023 Chief Development Officer of Newmont, Peter Toth and Prime Minister James Marape welcomed the company.

PM Marape shared the significance of this corporate transaction as Newmont assumes control of all Newcrest operations in Papua New Guinea including the Lihir mine in New Ireland and the Wafi-Golpu project in Morobe.

"It adds value to Papua New Guinea's global branding as an investment destination. What this country effectively has now is the world's number one gold company”, said Marape.

He said the election of Ms Semoso as North Bougainville MP is a resounding testament to PANGU’s commitment to promoting women's leadership in Papua New Guinea.

Her victory came having secured an impressive 13,270 votes, surpassing her 16 competitors.

This historic win further bolsters PANGU Pati's representation, increasing the party's count to 54 MPs following their triumph with 39 seats in the 2022 National General Election.

 “I congratulate Ms Semoso on behalf of the people of Papua New Guinea, PANGU Pati, and my family. I also thank all other candidates.

Marape made this offer to Hungary President Katalin Novák on her recent visit to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

“Anyone who is a refugee in the world out there in the face of Ukraine and War with Russia, if there are any displacements, if there are any skilled people.

“PNG is willing to pick up doctors, teachers, engineers,” said the Prime Minister.

He says PNG will offer temporary homes and open up its visa arrangements to cater for those displaced by the conflict. 

Prime Minister James Marape reiterated the importance of district plans for the development and effective delivery of services to each district.

He made these remarks on Friday, October 27, 2023, during the launch of three District Development Authority projects, including the commissioning of the SDA Primary School, the Youth Empowerment Program, and Wau-Waria District Development Plan 2023-2027 in Wau, Morobe Province.

He said five-year district development plans are crucial for ensuring that district levels receive the funding and resources they need to thrive. 

The international event, which drew participation from 150 international delegates representing 14 countries, as well as 350 participants from all corners of Papua New Guinea ended on Thursday, October 26.

Marape, speaking on behalf of the people of Papua New Guinea, extended his profound gratitude to WIBF for selecting Port Moresby as the host city. He conveyed his appreciation to all international delegates who graced the event with their presence.

Prime Minister Marape told delegates of the WIBF of the potential of PNG’s natural resources. He says the national government gives its support to all and hopes that by the end of the forum, indigenous businesses in attendance are better connected and linked to their respective peers in business, not just in PNG but abroad.

President Novak will be arriving in Papua New Guinea on Wednesday, 25th October 2023, 5pm, at Jackson’s International Airport, with her delegation of 25 people.

She will be received by the Prime Minister at the airport and pay a courtesy call on the Governor-General, His Excellency, Sir Bob Dadae at Government House, Konedobu, at 7pm, after which she will be hosted to a State dinner at the State Function Hall, Parliament House.

On Thursday, 26th October, the President will depart for Manus Province for a visit, and will leave PNG on Friday, 27th October.

Before they departed PNG, Prime Minister James Marape held a formal dinner on Sunday, October 22, and thanked them for their time in PNG and at the same time welcomed Fiji in the country who is set to play PNG LNG Kumuls next weekend at the Santos National Football Stadium.

The Government says the forthcoming structure will ensure that 10 percent of the earnings from petroleum and mineral resources are dedicated to supporting the vital work of the churches, reaching out to communities and inspiring positive change.

Prime Minister James Marape said this initiative demonstrates the government's commitment to strengthening its partnership with the churches in Papua New Guinea.