Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s deep and enduring partnership with Japan, outlining a forward-looking agenda centred on expanded scholarships, increased trade, clean energy innovation, and regional peace.
The Prime Minister made the remarks during high-level discussions with Mr Matsuoka Hideaki, Outgoing Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency; Mr Shirouzu Kenichi, Incoming Chief Representative of JICA; and His Excellency Hisanobu Mochizuki, Ambassador of Japan to Papua New Guinea.
Expanding Educational And Workforce Opportunities
Prime Minister Marape highlighted the growing impact of Japanese-supported education programmes, particularly through the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
“We are grateful for the increasing number of scholarship opportunities available to Papua New Guineans through Japan,” he said. “Not only university students, but also public servants are now accessing postgraduate education, including master’s degrees, which will strengthen our country’s human capital.”
He noted that the partnership continues to produce skilled graduates, including those trained in Japanese language and technical fields.
“It is my vision to see more Japanese companies investing in Papua New Guinea and employing our young people who have studied in Japan or learned the Japanese language,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He also encouraged deeper academic collaboration between PNG institutions such as Papua New Guinea University of Technology and University of Papua New Guinea and Japanese universities, particularly in emerging technologies.
Boosting Trade And Direct Connectivity
Prime Minister Marape welcomed efforts to enhance trade and connectivity between the two countries, including the anticipated expansion of direct shipping and air links.
He said Papua New Guinea stands ready to increase exports of key agricultural commodities such as coffee, cocoa, vanilla, and other high-value products to Japan, while also encouraging the import of high-quality Japanese goods.
“We are a country open for business,” he said. “There is significant potential for growth in trade, investment, and value-added manufacturing between our two nations.”
Clean Energy And Battery Technology Vision
Looking to the future, Prime Minister Marape proposed innovative collaboration in clean energy, particularly in battery storage and renewable energy systems.
“With our abundant natural resources — especially hydro, geothermal, and solar — Papua New Guinea has the potential to become a major supplier of clean energy,” he said.
“I invite Japanese companies and research institutions to partner with us in developing battery technology and energy storage solutions. Instead of traditional energy exports, we can explore new frontiers where clean energy is generated here and exported through advanced storage systems.”
Regional Peace And Global Cooperation
Prime Minister Marape also emphasised the importance of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, calling on major global powers to prioritise cooperation over conflict.
“We live in a connected world where what happens in one region affects all of us,” he said. “We must promote peace, coexistence, and respect for international laws governing land, sea, and air.”
Upcoming Japan-Pacific Engagements
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged Japan’s invitation to the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) and expressed his intention to continue strengthening bilateral relations at the highest level.
“I have attended previous PALM meetings and look forward to continuing this important engagement,” he
said. “Japan remains one of Papua New Guinea’s most trusted and longstanding partners.”
A Partnership Built On Trust
Prime Minister Marape concluded by reaffirming the mutual respect and shared vision that underpin PNG–Japan relations.
“Japan has never imposed itself on Papua New Guinea but has walked alongside us as a genuine partner in development,” he said. “Together, we can build a future based on innovation, sustainability, and shared prosperity.”