PNG serious about its role in Asean Regional Forum

In the recent Asean Regional Forum, PNG presented its case and aspirations to be a member of Asean.

Since 1999, PNG was associated as an observer but is now recognized as a special observer.

Foreign Affairs Minister  Justin Tkatchenko said, “our desire to deepen our engagements with ASEAN and possible membership is one that PNG is serious about.”

Because of PNG’s geographical and strategic location between Asia and the Pacific, the country highly values the two regions’ peace, stability and security issues.

As a member of ARF, Papua New Guinea is committed to support efforts and initiatives towards maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region through the implementation of the ARF Ha Noi Plan of Action II [2020 – 2025].

Despite having a large Exclusive Economic Zone [EEZ] with rich water for tuna stocks, challenges confronting both Pacific Island countries and bigger Asian partners are similar.

ARF a platform to address regional security cooperation

The dialogues in addressing international issues and regional cooperation is of significant value.

Security challenges such as climate change, maritime security and transnational crime must be addressed in collaborative manner and trust amongst member states.

Minister Tkatchenko says, "Papua New Guinea views the ARF as an important platform for discussing regional security and cooperation. We would like to emphasize PNG advocates for a more inclusive approach that incorporates the perspectives of small Pacific Island Countries, aiming to strengthen regional resilience and foster sustainable development within the current ARF framework."

Minister Tkatchenko further highlighted that Papua New Guinea, under the current Marape-Rosso Government supports multilateral approaches to enhance security, promote stability, and foster economic development.

On Security Cooperation, PNG advocates for collaborative efforts to tackle transnational threats such as terrorism, human trafficking, drug smuggling, IUU fishing and cybercrime.

On Climate Change, PNG prioritizes climate resilience and sustainable development, recognizing the impact of climate change on regional security.

On Disaster Management, PNG emphasizes the need for effective disaster response mechanisms and regional preparedness.

On Sovereignty and Inclusiveness, PNG values respect for national sovereignty and supports inclusive dialogue that encompasses all member states’ perspectives."

Minister Tkatchenko noted the Treaty of Rarotonga - the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty, and PNG's wish to see more action against global nuclear proliferation and intensification of efforts towards permanent peace on the Korean peninsula.

He assured the forum of PNG's continued efforts to encourage cooperation and engagement with ARF members to address shared challenges such as maritime disputes, piracy and navigation safety, as a maritime country.

Mutual Respect for Sovereignty vital for peace in the region

Addressing transnational crimes require collaborate efforts of ARF members.

Those crimes such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, IUU fishing and cybercrime are serious challenges to national security and must be addressed in a collective strategy.

As a subscriber to international law principles, the country believes, mutual respect for sovereignty is vital for peaceful co-existence in our region.

Minister Tkatchenko noted the Ship Rider Agreement and Defence Cooperation Agreement signed with the United States in 2023, the Bilateral Security Agreement with Australia, PNG's security measures internally and at its borders.

He also spoke of PNG-Indonesia relations, coordinated cooperation efforts and the mutual trust and confidence that had been built over recent years along a shared 824 kilometre land border.

The country continues to maintain its “One China Policy” with the People’s Republic of China, it's largest trading partner, and that both countries have mutually beneficial bilateral relations.

Tkactchenko thanked the ARF member nations who responded with relief supplies to the recent landslides, earthquakes and floods to affected communities. 

PNG hopes to see increased collaboration and commitment in the areas of climate change, pandemics, and cybersecurity.

A growing issue that poses danger to national security is global health sec

Global Health Security is also a concern which poses a danger to national security which the Minister believes will need more cooperation and deliberation from all member countries.

PNG deeply appreciates the role that the ARF plays in bringing partners together to discuss solutions and galvanize action."

The 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting and Related Meetings, including the 31st ASEAN Regional Forum ended on Saturday 27th.