PNG Govt launches foreign policy blueprint

The Papua New Guinea government has launched a new foreign policy white paper designed to navigate rapidly shifting global geopolitical and economic dynamics.

Key takeaways from the blueprint include:

• Core Philosophy: The nation maintains its long-standing "friends to all, enemies to none" mantra. Prime Minister James Marape noted that this approach is rooted in Melanesian values of peace and dialogue, as well as the country’s Christian heritage.

• Strategic Proactivity: The policy emphasizes the need for PNG to be proactive rather than reactive in a world shaped by technological shifts and competing international forces. It is intended to serve as a long-term guide that transcends political cycles.

• Diplomatic Expansion: As part of the strategy, PNG plans to:

  • Establish a new embassy in Paris, France.

  • Open a diplomatic mission in the United Arab Emirates.

  • Strengthen its existing representation in Jerusalem (noting PNG is one of the few nations to place its mission there rather than Tel Aviv).

• Primary Goals: The blueprint focuses on four pillars:

  1. Strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations.

  2. Safeguarding national sovereignty, borders, and security.

  3. Enhancing development cooperation.

  4. Promoting PNG’s global image and national brand.

Prime Minister Marape framed the document as an essential tool for ensuring the country is "prepared and positioned" for future global decisions that may impact the region.