Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has confirmed that the Prime Minister of Australia has formally accepted an invitation—conveyed through the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy—to deliver the opening address at the 2025 Leaders’ Summit at the PNG Investment Week Conference in Sydney on 9 December 2025.
Prime Minister Marape expressed his deep appreciation to the Australian leader for making the commitment despite a demanding schedule.
“I thank the Australian Prime Minister for accepting the invitation and for being gracious with his time. In the midst of his busy calendar, he has found an hour to stand with us at PNG’s premier mining, petroleum and energy conference. This is the first time a sitting Australian Prime Minister will attend and deliver the opening remarks — a significant milestone in itself.”
Prime Minister Marape said the attendance of the Australian Prime Minister reflects the strength, trust, and maturity of the bilateral relationship, which has reached unprecedented levels through expanded cooperation under the Defence Treaty and elevated strategic partnership arrangements.
“Our two nations share a relationship built on closeness — two economies, two governments, and two peoples with deep bonds and shared futures. For the Australian Prime Minister to personally confirm his attendance with me speaks volumes about the importance both governments place on this partnership.”
He noted that this year’s conference is expected to be the largest in its long history, with an expanded programme and strong global interest in PNG’s investment, resource, energy and petroleum sectors.
“The attendee numbers, presentation lineup, and global interest make this the biggest conference ever. This year’s event is fuller, more relevant, and more aligned with PNG’s contemporary investment priorities — particularly in petroleum, energy, and mining. But it will also highlight opportunities across the broader economy as we chart the next 10, 15 and 20 years of growth.”
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that he will share the stage with the Australian Prime Minister during the opening segment of the conference in Sydney.
“I look forward to joining the Australian Prime Minister on the podium on 9
December. Together, we will outline the vision for a strong, stable, investment- ready Papua New Guinea, and reaffirm the enduring partnership between our two countries.”