Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, GCL, MP, has commended Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Justin Tkatchenko, CBE, BEM, OL, MP, for his outstanding representation of Papua New Guinea at the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda.
Prime Minister Marape expressed his appreciation for Minister Tkatchenko’s strong and principled leadership at the summit, held under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth”, which secured more than US$500 million in new commitments.
He said Minister Tkatchenko had effectively advanced Papua New Guinea’s national interests and the priorities of Pacific Island countries, particularly in international financial reform, democratic resilience and sustainable climate financing.
“I commend Minister Tkatchenko for representing Papua New Guinea with distinction and ensuring that our national interests and the concerns of our Pacific region were strongly articulated at this important Commonwealth gathering,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Our region faces significant development challenges, particularly climate change, access to affordable financing and economic resilience. It is important that the Commonwealth continues to provide practical support to its smaller and more vulnerable member countries.”
Prime Minister Marape welcomed the summit’s focus on reforming the international financial architecture, strengthening democratic institutions through the Nadi Declaration, and advancing climate financing initiatives, including the Pacific Resilience Facility, Net Zero Fund and Aspiration Fund.
He also welcomed Minister Tkatchenko’s initiative in formally expressing Papua New Guinea’s interest in establishing a Commonwealth Pacific Regional Office in Port Moresby and hosting a future CHOGM.
“The establishment of a Commonwealth Pacific Regional Office in Port Moresby would strengthen the organisation’s presence, visibility and engagement across the Pacific and Southeast Asia,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Papua New Guinea is strategically positioned to serve as a regional hub for Commonwealth cooperation, and we stand ready to take on greater responsibilities within the Commonwealth family.
“Our expression of interest in hosting a future CHOGM also demonstrates our confidence, growing international standing and commitment to strengthening partnerships among Commonwealth nations.”
Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea remained a committed and constructive member of the Commonwealth and would continue working with other member countries to promote sustainable development, economic opportunities, democratic governance and regional cooperation.
“I thank Minister Tkatchenko and his delegation for their efforts in advancing Papua New Guinea’s interests and ensuring that our country’s voice continues to be heard on the international stage,” he said.