Port Moresby | Tuesday, 4 November 2025 — Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s position as one of the world’s leading advocates for forest and ocean conservation, as he departed for the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil.
Speaking before his departure, Prime Minister Marape said PNG would continue to champion the dual priorities of forest and ocean resource management — both of which are central to global climate resilience.
“Papua New Guinea is renowned for its rich biodiversity — in both our forests and our oceans,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Any conversation about climate change is incomplete without recognising the role of forest and ocean resource management.”
He said PNG’s participation in COP30 carries extraordinary significance, as this year’s meeting is hosted by Brazil — the world’s largest forest nation — and marks the first time a forest nation is hosting a COP.
“Brazil and Papua New Guinea share a common identity as forest nations,” he said. “Our tropical rainforests are among the planet’s largest carbon sinks — third only to the Amazon and Congo basins. Over 70 percent of PNG’s forests remain in their primary state, rich in biodiversity and carbon storage. The world must recognise that preserving these forests benefits all humanity.”
Call for Global Action and Climate Finance
Prime Minister Marape reiterated that developed nations with high carbon footprints must compensate forest nations like PNG through climate financing and conservation incentives.
“If the world wants us to preserve our forests for the benefit of the entire human family, then those with huge carbon footprints must provide conservation dollars to assist our landowners,” he said. “They are the custodians of these forests, and they must be supported to preserve them.”
He added that while PNG continues to make sacrifices to protect its environment, many major economies have failed to meaningfully reduce fossil fuel consumption.
“Coal remains in widespread use among the world’s biggest emitters,” he said. “Transition to cleaner energy must happen within the next 20 years if we are to save our planet from the ravages of climate change.”
Forest and Ocean Stewardship
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that PNG will soon deposit its ratification with the United Nations, committing to conserve at least 30 percent of its forest and ocean areas by 2030.
“We sit at the heart of the Coral Triangle — the richest marine biodiversity zone on Earth,” he said. “We are also preparing to host the Global Oceans Conference in 2030, which will further cement PNG’s place as a leader in ocean stewardship.”
The Prime Minister said PNG would also host the inaugural Oceans Economic Ministers Forum next year as a lead-up to the global event, and announced PNG’s full support for Australia’s bid to host COP31 in 2026, on behalf of the Pacific region.
Global Recognition of PNG’s Leadership
PM Marape said PNG’s consistent advocacy has earned global recognition, including invitations to high-level dialogues such as a private session with King Charles III on climate issues.
“Papua New Guinea is no longer a passive participant in global affairs,” he said. “We are recognised as both a forest nation and an ocean nation, and our voice carries weight in international climate discussions.”
Major Events on PNG’s Horizon
In a significant development, the Prime Minister also announced that Papua New Guinea has been approved to host the APEC Leaders’ Summit in 2033 — marking the country’s return to the global economic stage following the successful 2018 APEC.
“I am pleased to announce that the APEC Secretariat and member economies have accepted our bid to host APEC again in 2033,” he said. “This is a proud moment for our nation.” Prime Minister Marape also noted other major milestones ahead, including PNG’s hosting of the Global Oceans Conference in 2030 and the anticipated debut of the PNG NRL team in 2028.
“As we move beyond our 50th Independence Anniversary, the world knows that Papua New Guinea has earned its place among the global family of nations,” he said. “We are a biodiversity superpower — both a forest and an ocean nation — and we will continue to lead from the front in protecting our planet.”
ENDS
