Australia and Papua New Guinea strengthen diplomatic and ICT ties

During the 32nd PNG-Australia Ministerial Forum in Port Moresby, the governments of Australia and Papua New Guinea signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in telecommunications and digital critical technologies. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that connectivity is essential for economic growth and the strengthening of essential services.

Regarding regional stability, Foreign Minister Wong stated that the issue of Bougainville’s independence must be resolved through negotiations between the Autonomous Bougainville Government and Papua New Guinea. She noted that Australia respects the process between the two parties.

Discussions also addressed immigration, with Wong expressing openness to further discussing visa arrangements for Papua New Guineans. She highlighted existing measures such as the Pacific Engagement Visa programme, noting that Papua New Guinea receives the largest cohort of these visas in the Pacific.