Philippines and Papua New Guinea Exchange Views on Bilateral and Regional Concerns and Discussed Preparations for the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations

(Photo courtesy of DFA-OPD Royce Pantua)

MANILA 05 April 2024 – Philippine Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo and Papua New Guinea (PNG) Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko discussed ways to strengthen and expand existing cooperation between the Philippines and Papua New Guinea while delving constructively on regional developments of mutual concern. Recognizing the shared challenges in addressing climate change and mitigating the effects of human activities to the marine environment, both Ministers broached undertakings that can be jointly pursued in the context of sustainable fishing, marine environmental conservation, and protection of marine habitats. 

Understanding the potential of maximizing the economic relationship between the Philippines and Papua New Guinea, the Ministers discussed existing bilateral mechanisms in agriculture and fisheries as well as the convening of the Joint Economic and Trade Committee. The Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to provide support to PNG’s development efforts within the framework of South-South Cooperation. 

The Philippines acknowledged the efforts of the PNG government in ensuring domestic peace and stability, and the welfare of more than 35,000 Filipinos in PNG.

As Pacific neighbors, the two ministers expressed support towards advancing the priority areas of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) to which the PNG is a member. The Philippines, as a Dialogue Partner, manifested commitment in fostering a mutually-beneficial partnership with PIF.

Secretary Manalo and Minister Tkatchenko had an open dialogue on the recent developments in the West Philippine Sea. The DFA chief emphasized the importance of ensuring free and open sea lanes and upholding international law to maritime and trading nations such as the Philippines and Papua New Guinea.

The two Ministers agreed to explore more avenues of cooperation, both at the bilateral and multilateral levels, especially on areas of common interests. Accordingly, the Ministers recognized the significance of celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in September next year in a manner befitting the long-standing ties and strong people-to-people linkages that exist between the two countries. END

(Photo courtesy of DFA-OPD Royce Pantua)