Prime Minister James Marape

The meeting between the two leaders marks a significant milestone in the ongoing diplomatic relations between Australia and Papua New Guinea, aiming to bolster cooperation across a spectrum of key areas.

Security cooperation takes centre stage as both nations seek to enhance their collaborative efforts in addressing regional security challenges and ensuring stability in the Pacific region.

In a media release this afternoon, the Prime Minister stated;

"My dear People of Papua New Guinea,

"It is with the greatest sorrow that I inform you of the untimely death of one of our sons and my Minister for Education, Honorable Jimmy Uguro.

"The late Minister Uguro was Member for Usino-Bundi and also a loyal member of my party, Pangu. He was on duty travel to East Sepik Province when he passed.

The Prime Minister in a recent media release expressed his commitment to thoroughly investigate key issues affecting the country in his capacity as Treasurer. 

Marape revealed a look into key areas of ongoing concern for Papua New Guinea. And looks forward to a complete review that aligns with the government’s commitment to economic stability and the well-being of the people.

The directive comes in the wake of a meeting between Prime Minister Marape and Labor and Employment Minister Kessy Sawang, where discussions revolved around various challenges faced by the department.

“The minimum wage issue has been outstanding since 2014.

“I have instructed Minister Sawang that the minimum wage of K3.50 per hour should be reviewed to align with the escalating cost of living and changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

The Prime Minister underscored the government's commitment to delivering development for the people of Papua New Guinea, emphasising the responsibility of the six newly-appointed ministers and those reshuffled.

The Prime Minister made the six new ministerial appointments and reshuffled Cabinet last Thursday January 18^th.

“My government is now into its second year in office, and I want to remind the new ministers and those reshuffled that our job is to deliver development to our people,” Prime Minister Marape reiterated.

Prime Minister James Marape in a media statement released today has reassured public servants throughout the country that after the upcoming pay run, everything will return to normal.

He made this announcement following a meeting with suspended Finance Secretary Sam Penias, suspended Treasury Secretary Andrew Oaeke, and suspended Personnel Management Secretary Taies Sansan.

He revealed that a Cabinet reshuffle is imminent this week.

"The issues concerning the economy and the functionality of key state agencies, including Treasury, Finance, and Planning, have been heard loud and clear," said Prime Minister Marape. 

“We will examine the central agencies of Government along with all supporting departments."

Meantime, the Prime Minister Marape will engage with members of the Port Moresby business community this week to address the aftermath of the riots, arson, and looting.

A first-quarter allocation of K214m is anticipated to be disbursed this month, just before the commencement of classes.

The announcement comes after an extensive meeting with Education Secretary, Dr. Uke Kombra, on the outcomes of the Department of Education in 2023 and priorities set for 2024.

The funding assistance of K856.686m is an increase of K88.846m from the K767.84m allocated in 2023.

“Some people think that some of us are fearful of 2024. Far from being fearful, we looking at working.

“I see a trend in PNG where some people become seasonal and topical experts on any and every matter.

Acknowledging the inherent goodness of the people, he emphasizes the importance of unity in a culturally rich nation.

During the holiday break, PM Marape embarked on infrastructure projects in Jiwaka, Western Highlands, Southern Highlands, and Hela provinces.

He reiterates the challenge of low productivity in the public service and expresses hope that his initiatives will set the stage for increased output in 2024.