Melanesian unity must reflect ancestral bonds, says PNG Prime Minister

Prime Minister James Marape has urged Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) member states to deepen their unity by drawing on shared cultural heritage and a common destiny, during his address at the 23rd MSG Leaders’ Summit in Suva.

Highlighting the ancestral legacy of the Lapita civilisation, Prime Minister Marape said Melanesian nations—spanning Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, and Fiji—have long been connected through ancient ties that predate modern borders.

“We are an ancient people,” Marape said. “Our heritage goes back over 4,500 years. The Lapita cultural footprint unites us—our roots, our sea, our heritage, and our people. MSG must reflect our cultural unity, common ancestry, and where we are headed as one Melanesian family.”

He described MSG as a vital pillar within the broader Pacific Islands Forum [PIF], particularly in navigating complex regional issues, and called on members to uphold the group’s distinct identity while contributing meaningfully to Pacific-wide cooperation.

On geopolitical matters, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed PNG’s support for ongoing dialogue around New Caledonia’s self-determination and the West Papua issue, commending Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for fostering inclusive and mature discussions.

He also welcomed Indonesia’s participation in MSG dialogue, noting that such engagement respects sovereignty while affirming MSG’s responsibility to protect Melanesian land and cultural rights wherever they exist.

“MSG has a responsibility to all Melanesians — whether in sovereign Indonesia, in the Torres
Strait under Australian sovereignty, or elsewhere. Our discussions must protect people’s
rights without impinging on national borders,” Marape said.

Letters articulating unified MSG positions on both New Caledonia and West Papua will be delivered to the governments of France and Indonesia.

In governance matters, Prime Minister Marape endorsed the consensus reached on future appointments for the MSG Director General, emphasizing transparency, merit-based selection, and rotational equity among member states. He also backed the review of MSG membership criteria to ensure clarity and consistency for full, associate, and observer members.

On economic and social fronts, Marape called for expanded intra-MSG trade and deeper cooperation in culture and sport. He proposed institutionalising the MSG Prime Ministers’ Cup for men’s and women’s football teams, to strengthen regional identity and youth participation.

Addressing climate action, he acknowledged Australia’s renewed climate leadership and confirmed PNG’s participation in the upcoming COP summit alongside Brazil and other forested nations. He also called for global recognition of the Pacific Ocean’s role as a crucial carbon sink.

Closing his remarks, Prime Minister Marape underscored MSG’s complementary role within the PIF, affirming that the group is not separate but rather a sub-regional force that strengthens the Pacific vision.

“MSG is here to promote and protect Melanesian people’s rights, cultures, and development aspirations—but always within the broader context of Pacific cooperation and engagement with foreign partners,” he said.

"As we mark 50 years of independence, we thank our MSG brothers and sisters who have walked with us—and we look forward to growing stronger together for the next 50 years and beyond.”