Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the willingness of former United Kingdom Prime Minister Rt Hon Tony Blair to support Papua New Guinea in strengthening policy development, government capacity and the use of digital technology — particularly artificial intelligence — to improve public-sector efficiency and service delivery.
The meeting took place at the margins of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, following an approach by Mr Blair requesting discussions with the Prime Minister.
Prime Minister Marape said the high-level engagement provided valuable global insight at a time when nations are navigating major geopolitical and economic shifts.
“It was a privilege to meet a senior global statesman of Mr Blair’s standing,” the Prime Minister said.
“He reached out to us for a meeting, and we held detailed discussions with our respective officials present. He expressed a strong willingness to assist Papua New Guinea, particularly in the areas of policy advisory support and institutional capacity upgrading.”
Focus on ICT, Artificial Intelligence and Government Efficiency
Prime Minister Marape said Mr Blair emphasised the strategic use of appropriate information and communications technology (ICT) systems and artificial intelligence tools to modernise government operations.
“His key advice centred on how technology — especially artificial intelligence — can be deployed to improve government efficiency, remove bureaucratic impediments, sharpen national priorities and ensure governments deliver tangible outcomes for their people,” the Prime Minister said.
“This aligns strongly with our own reform agenda as we modernise the public service and ensure better value for money in government.”
Global Perspective on Geopolitics and Emerging Economies
Prime Minister Marape said the discussion also covered broader global developments, including geopolitical tensions, conflicts in strategic regions, the role of major powers, and the position of emerging markets such as Papua New Guinea within the evolving global order.
“At his level, you gain a clear view of how the world is emerging under present circumstances — with several wars taking place in strategic regions and the increasing interaction between superpowers, advanced economies and emerging nations,” he said.
“His global perspective was insightful and deeply appreciated.”
The Prime Minister noted that Mr Blair currently serves in several international advisory capacities and was recently appointed to a global peace-related role focused on the Gaza situation, reflecting his ongoing contribution to international diplomacy and humanitarian dialogue.
“We commended him for his continued engagement on global forums in the interest of peace, stability and the goodwill of humanity,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Commendation for PNG’s Democratic Stability
Prime Minister Marape said Mr Blair spoke positively about Papua New Guinea’s political record and democratic maturity.
“He commended Papua New Guinea for its consistency in democratic governance, the maintenance of a free-market economy, and our commitment to constitutional stability,” the Prime Minister said.
“He conveyed nothing but his best wishes for our country and encouraged us to remain steadfast on a path of peace, stability and inclusive growth for all our citizens.”
Potential Visit to Papua New Guinea
Prime Minister Marape revealed that Mr Blair indicated his willingness to visit Papua New Guinea in the future, particularly during his travels through Singapore, the Philippines and the wider Southeast Asian region.
“He expressed interest in returning our way to continue discussions and to support efforts aimed at strengthening governance systems and long-term development planning,” the Prime Minister said.
Emphasis on Youth and Education Through AI
A central theme of the meeting was the future of young people and the role of technology in education.
“Mr Blair strongly emphasised the importance of deploying artificial intelligence to improve access to quality education for our youth,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“He highlighted the need to empower young people with the skills required to participate meaningfully in the economy of the future — an area that resonates deeply with our government’s vision.”
Prime Minister Marape said the discussions reinforced Papua New Guinea’s commitment to embracing innovation while safeguarding national priorities.
“As we mark our nation’s 50th year of independence, these global engagements reaffirm that Papua New Guinea is respected internationally and remains well positioned to learn from global experience while charting its own development path,” he said.