Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has officially welcomed participating Teams from across Melanesia to Papua New Guinea for the 2025 Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Ministers Soccer Tournament, which is now underway in Port Moresby.
The Tournament, which runs from 10th to 22nd November 2025, is being hosted at PNG Football Stadium and Sir John Guise Stadium. This year marks the fourth edition of the Men’s MSG Prime Ministers Cup and the first-ever Women’s MSG Tournament, making it a historic event for Papua New Guinea and the broader Melanesian Region.
Prime Minister Marape, in welcoming the Teams and Officials, said Papua New Guinea is honoured to host this prestigious event that brings together the Nations of Melanesia through the unifying power of Sport.
“We extend our warmest Melanesian welcome to all our brothers and sisters from Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Papua New Guinea, as the biggest Melanesian and Pacific nation, is proud to host you. We will make sure you are well looked after, and that your time here is enjoyable, competitive, and memorable.”
He said the MSG Prime Ministers Soccer Tournament is more than just a Sporting event — it is a celebration of Melanesian solidarity and cultural identity.
“This Competition is not only about lifting trophies. It is about building stronger people-to-people connections, especially among our children and youths,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Through Sports, our young people can learn teamwork, discipline, and respect, while also celebrating our shared Melanesian heritage.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to supporting Sports Development in Papua New Guinea and integrating Sports into the Education system as part of Youth Empowerment initiatives.
“Our Government is looking seriously at embedding Sports into Schools across the country,” he said. “Not every child will excel academically — some are naturally gifted Athletes. We want to give them a pathway to pursue their talents, develop their skills, and even represent our country internationally.”
He commended the PNG Football Association (PNGFA) for its leadership in promoting Football in Papua New Guinea and across the Region, and thanked the Melanesian Spearhead Group Secretariat for coordinating the event.
“I commend the leadership of PNGFA and all the Organisers who made this possible,” he said. “Football is growing rapidly in our country, and it offers an alternative career path for our Youths. We must continue supporting such platforms where talent and unity meet.”
Prime Minister Marape encouraged the Corporate Sector and local communities to rally behind the event and show their support for the visiting Teams.
“I call on our Business Community, sports fans, and the people of Papua New Guinea to come out in numbers, support the matches, and extend the true Melanesian hospitality that our country is known for,” he said.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I once again welcome our Melanesian brothers and sisters. May this Tournament strengthen our unity and friendship through the beautiful game of Football.”