Japan-Papua New Guinea Relations
Japan-Papua New Guinea Leaders Video Teleconference Meeting
June 29, 2021
Japan-Papua New Guinea Leaders Video Teleconference Meeting (Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
On June 29, commencing at 3:45 p.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Mr. SUGA Yoshihide, Prime Minister of Japan, held a Japan-Papua New Guinea leaders video teleconference meeting with Hon. James MARAPE, Prime Minister of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
- Prime Minister Suga stated that Pacific Island countries such as Papua New Guinea are important partners to Japan, and that he would like to strengthen relations between the two countries. He also stated that he would like to continue working closely with Prime Minister Marape toward a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific."
- Prime Minister Suga expressed his intention to continue supporting Papua New Guinea with measures against COVID-19 and others such as infrastructure development and to provide an assistance for road construction and maintenance.
- In response, Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude for Japan's long-standing support. Both sides concurred on cooperating toward the success of the 9th Pacific Islands Leaders’ Meeting.
- Prime Minister Suga requested cooperation for the stable operation of Japanese fishing vessels, the collection and repatriation of the remains of Japanese soldiers of WWII, and the participation of Japanese companies in the LNG project. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional issues, including the response to North Korea. Prime Minister Suga requested understanding and cooperation for the abduction issue, and received support from Prime Minister Marape.
- Prime Minister Suga stated that Japan was taking all possible infection control measures in preparation for hosting the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in a safe and secure manner.