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Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva have called for strengthened collaboration between their nations on climate leadership, forest and ocean conservation, and sustainable development, highlighting the shared responsibilities of forest-rich countries in the Global South. The discussions took place in Belém, Brazil, on the sidelines of COP30, hosted in the Amazon region for the first time. Strengthening Bilateral Relations President Lula warmly welcomed Prime Minister Marape and his delegation, describing Brazil’s view of Papua New Guinea as a natural partner in advancing forest protection, renewable energy, and fair trade among developing nations. He emphasised the environmental importance of both countries, calling them “guardians of the planet’s lungs” and highlighting the need for cooperation in sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and energy transition. “We live in forests — our people depend on them, and our planet depends on them. Without forests, there is no life and no future for our children,” President Lula said. He further urged that “Brazil and Papua New Guinea must walk together as leaders of the Global South to show that it is possible to grow economies while protecting nature”. Prime Minister Marape echoed the sentiment, noting that Papua New Guinea and Brazil — both custodians of vast tropical rainforests — carry the burden of preserving the planet’s vital ecosystems while maintaining minimal carbon footprints. “As a forest nation and an ocean nation, our carbon footprint is minimal, yet we are the victims of climate change,” he said. “Our forests and oceans carry the weight of the world’s excess carbon, but the benefits have not flowed equitably to our people”. Proposal for Stronger Diplomatic and Economic Links President Lula proposed the opening of a Brazilian embassy in Port Moresby to enhance diplomatic engagement, trade, and technical cooperation. He said this initiative would pave the way for collaboration in agriculture, renewable energy, and scientific research. “It is time we expand our ties beyond climate discussions. We can deepen cooperation in trade, health, education, and energy. Brazil is ready to work with Papua New Guinea on new opportunities that will benefit both our peoples”. Prime Minister Marape supported the idea, suggesting a reciprocal PNG diplomatic mission in Brazil and inviting Brazilian companies to invest in agriculture and energy sectors in Papua New Guinea. “Your agribusiness strength can support our move toward becoming a food-secure exporting nation,” he said. Both leaders agreed to explore collaborations in tropical agriculture, renewable energy, hydropower, LNG, and other clean technologies. Renewable Energy and Climate Transition President Lula highlighted Brazil’s achievements in renewable energy, stating that 87% of Brazil’s electricity matrix is generated from renewable sources, including hydropower, biofuels, and solar energy. Brazil is the world’s second-largest producer of ethanol and a leader in clean energy technology through state-owned company Petrobras. “Brazil has learned to use its oil wealth to finance the energy transition,” he said. “Our goal is to turn Petrobras into a full energy company investing in alternative sources — not just fossil fuels” . Prime Minister Marape outlined Papua New Guinea’s clean energy ambitions, including expanding hydropower capacity and increasing LNG exports to regional markets. “We want to be self-sufficient in energy and also support our region with clean hydropower. Our LNG exports to Japan, Korea, and Singapore show that PNG is a reliable energy partner,” he said. The Prime Minister highlighted PNG’s potential to become a regional supplier of clean energy to neighbouring countries, including Australia and Indonesia . Fighting Hunger and Inequality President Lula also addressed global food security, stressing the need for cooperation to combat hunger and malnutrition. He referenced Brazil’s Global Alliance Against Hunger and Obesity, launched earlier in the year with over 50 countries, inviting Papua New Guinea to join. “The world spends trillions on weapons while millions go hungry. We must redirect those resources to food, education, and health — to build a fairer, more humane world,” he said. Shared Vision for Forest and Ocean Conservation At COP30, Prime Minister Marape called on world leaders to unite around nature-based solutions, stressing that forests and oceans are “our greatest allies — they preserve the air, regulate the climate, and sustain life on Earth”. He reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to conserving 35 million hectares of pristine rainforest — equivalent to 13% of the world’s tropical forests — alongside vast ocean ecosystems home to 7% of global biodiversity. “Our forests, oceans, and biodiversity sustain all life on Earth — and without them, we have no future,” Prime Minister Marape said. He emphasised the need for global climate finance that values standing forests and supports forest and ocean nations. “Our forests deserve proper conservation financing. Nature-based technologies must begin by valuing standing forests — not just harvested timber. One hectare of conserved forest can save the world far more than any industrial offset,” he said. Climate Finance and Equity Prime Minister Marape urged developed nations to honour their Paris Agreement commitments and channel financing into nature-based solutions. He highlighted jurisdictional REDD+ and carbon market systems under Articles 5 and 6 of the Paris Agreement as mechanisms to deliver equitable climate finance for forest nations. “For six years as Prime Minister, I have been saying: stop deforestation. Bring real conservation that sustains livelihoods and protects humanity. If this generation of leaders fails to find real financing solutions for forest nations, history will judge us harshly”. The leaders welcomed the Baku–Belém Roadmap, a COP29–COP30 initiative to mobilise US$1.3 trillion annually by 2035 for developing nations. The framework’s Five Action Fronts — Replenishing, Rebalancing, Rechanneling, Revamping, and Reshaping — aim to unlock climate finance while reforming global financial architecture. Deepening Strategic Partnerships During their bilateral discussions, Marape and Lula agreed to strengthen cooperation across climate action, food security, clean energy, and sustainable development. President Lula proposed sending Brazil’s Minister of Economy to Papua New Guinea for consultations with PNG’s economic team, signalling Brazil’s intention to build a comprehensive partnership in energy, agribusiness, and technology. Prime Minister Marape described the partnership as part of a broader Pacific-to-Amazon diplomacy strategy, linking the Pacific’s forest and ocean nations with Latin America’s environmental and agricultural powers. “We are connecting the Pacific and the Amazon — two of the world’s great forest regions — in a common cause for climate and sustainable growth,” he said. A Voice for the Global South Both leaders underscored their role as advocates for the Global South, calling for climate justice and fair recognition of environmental services provided by forest nations. “Forest nations are doing their part, but the rewards and recognition have not come,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Papua New Guinea stands with Brazil and the forest economies of the world to ensure that climate justice becomes real. It must not just be a slogan — it must be lived reality for our people”. Marape recalled following Brazil’s hosting of the first Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro as a student in 1992 and described his return as Prime Minister as deeply meaningful.  “It is deeply meaningful to be here where it all began, continuing the same message: let us save our forests, protect our oceans, and pass on a healthier world to our children” Looking Ahead Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea will dispatch its Minister for Trade and Investment to Brazil to establish a formal bilateral framework and plan sectoral exchanges in agriculture, renewable energy, and climate technology. Both nations aim to create tangible results from their partnership, demonstrating that forest and ocean nations can lead the fight against climate change while promoting sustainable economic growth.

A 1-megawatt Buin Solar Farm was officially launched last Friday in Buin Town, marking a major milestone in Bougainville’s renewable energy journey. The project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), will deliver clean and reliable electricity to homes, schools, hospitals and businesses across Buin and its surrounding communities — reaching nearly 80 percent of the population. In his welcoming remarks, Chief Albert Nukuitu reflected on the community’s determination to keep Buin powered through difficult years. “In 2018, we formed Buin Power — a community-driven effort that ran 22 hours a day without government funding,” he said. “These young people gave their lives to serve the community and deserve recognition as Bougainville Power moves forward.” The solar farm now transforms that legacy into a regionwide power solution, integrating solar panels, battery storage and backup generators to ensure a constant energy supply while cutting fossil fuel dependency. President Ishmael Toroama, in his keynote address, commended the people of Bougainville for their resilience and unity, describing the solar project as a milestone in the region’s journey towards self-reliance. “What we have achieved today is not by chance,” he said. “It is through our own hands, our pride and our unity as Bougainvilleans. Peace is here to stay.” The President expressed gratitude to development partners for their continued collaboration and encouraged communities to take ownership of projects that contribute to Bougainville’s growth. “We must take ownership of our land, our power and our future,” he said. “When we work together, we strengthen our journey towards independence.” Japanese Ambassador Hisanobu Mochizuki reaffirmed Japan’s support for Bougainville, describing the project as a reflection of long-standing friendship and cooperation. “This solar farm will help stimulate the local economy by improving access to clean energy,” the Ambassador said. He also highlighted Japan’s ongoing assistance to Bougainville, including the construction of 15 coastal bridges, support for the 2019 Bougainville Referendum and the building of new school facilities. UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth noted that the event coincided with United Nations Day, marking 80 years since the UN Charter came into force and 50 years since Papua New Guinea joined the UN. “Bougainville once knew the scars of war, but today it stands for peace,” Booth said. “This solar farm represents renewal — linking peace, equality and sustainable development.” He added that the project will reduce energy costs by up to 50 percent, deliver steady power to essential services and directly benefit more than 200 households. Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei also acknowledged the continued partnership with Japan and UNDP, describing the initiative as a vital step towards Bougainville’s energy independence. “Bougainville Power will manage generation and distribution across Buin, Arawa and Buka,” he said, adding that upcoming government initiatives — including plans for a new hospital, teachers’ college, market facilities and major road improvements — will also be supported by this project. The Buin Solar Farm will expand its network to nearby villages and missions, including Piano, Tokaino, Tabago and Kangu, covering a 48-kilometre radius.

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), through its Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) and in close collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), has released the Papua New Guinea International Visitor Survey (IVS) for the period January–June 2025. This report provides critical insights into the travel motivations, expenditure patterns, and satisfaction levels of international visitors to Papua New Guinea (PNG), supporting ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s tourism strategies and enhance the visitor experience. PNG is among 10 Pacific Island countries — the Cook Islands, Niue, Vanuatu, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Kiribati, Timor-Leste, and FSM-Yap — participating in the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative funded by the New Zealand Government. PTDI continues to serve as an essential resource for tourism data across the Pacific through its biannual International Visitor Survey (IVS), an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), and an annual Community Attitude Survey (CAS), strengthening regional tourism strategies. The survey analysed 1,415 responses, representing 3% of total visitors during the period, with a 22% response rate. Key findings revealed that 46% of respondents were first-time visitors, with an average household income of USD 60,000–79,999. International visitor arrivals increased to 53,379, up from 48,622 in the same period in 2024, reflecting sustained recovery driven by targeted marketing, improved air connectivity, and government-led initiatives to raise PNG’s tourism profile. Visitors were primarily drawn by PNG’s natural landscapes, cultural diversity, and business opportunities, as well as connections with family and friends. Historical and heritage attractions, particularly World War II sites, continued to strengthen PNG’s appeal as a unique cultural and historical destination. From an economic perspective, the average total spend per visitor was USD 2,278, with 65% (USD 1,552) estimated to directly benefit the local economy. The total economic impact of international tourism for the six months was valued at USD 121 million (PGK 491 million). Although average visitor spending decreased compared to the same period in 2024, the data suggests a shift toward higher prepaid expenditure, indicating evolving traveller purchasing behaviours and a greater reliance on digital booking channels. Visitor satisfaction remained high at 4 out of 5, with 93% of respondents recommending PNG and 86% indicating willingness to return. Positive feedback focused on the friendliness of local people, cultural diversity, and natural beauty, while areas for improvement included safety, domestic air travel, costs, and infrastructure. TPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Eric Mossman Uvovo, highlighted the significance of the findings in guiding future tourism development. “The International Visitor Survey provides valuable insights into the motivations and experiences of our visitors. This information enables us to refine our marketing and product strategies, strengthen partnerships, and deliver a more seamless visitor experience. With robust data, we can position Papua New Guinea as a competitive, culturally rich, and resilient destination in the Pacific,” said Uvovo. SPTO’s Chief Executive Officer, Christopher Cocker, reaffirmed SPTO’s commitment to advancing regional tourism research and supporting data-driven decision-making. “Through the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, SPTO continues to empower Pacific Island countries with high-quality data to inform sustainable tourism growth. We commend PNGTPA for its commitment to evidence-based policy and planning. These findings not only support national tourism strategies but also contribute to the region’s collective vision for a sustainable and resilient Pacific tourism sector,” said Cocker.

The Eda Davara Marine Sanctuary Team invites you to be part of something extraordinary. Starting off the year 2026, join us for the Eda Davara Gala Night, in celebrating Papua New Guinea’s ocean heritage and the communities and people who protect it. Set for January, at the Hilton Hotel, Port Moresby, the Gala Night will bring together government leaders, corporate partners, community champions, and young environmental advocates under the inspiring theme: “Eda Goada, Eda Davara - Our Strength, Our Ocean.” Hosted by the Eda Davara Team, this event is more than a fundraiser, it is a movement. All proceeds will go to supporting projects such as the establishment of the Eda Davara Marine Research Centre, the expansion of youth programs like EcoRangers and EcoExplorers, and vital restoration projects across mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs. Guests can look forward to a rich and meaningful evening featuring an unforgettable program of culture and conservation. From inspiring speeches and recognition awards, to live performances and the much anticipated “Roots & Ribbons” fashion runway, where traditional storytelling meets contemporary design. Each element of the Gala Night tells a story of resilience, unity, and responsibility for the ocean that sustains us. Beyond fundraising, the Gala Night also serves as a platform to strengthen partnerships aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). It’s an opportunity for businesses, government agencies, and communities to unite in protecting PNG’s natural heritage while promoting sustainable growth. Guests will enjoy a night of elegance and purpose, with exquisite dining, meaningful connections, and the chance to be part of a shared vision for a bluer, brighter future. Sponsorship opportunities are available at gold, silver, and bronze levels, each offering exclusive recognition and visibility for those who stand behind the cause. The organization administers several projects including mangrove rehabilitation, seagrass meadows, ecotourism events that acts as a direct stream of income into the community, and a EcoScholars program that hosts interns from the University of Papua New Guinea, the Pacific Adventist University and the Institute of Business Studies University. We also have an arm under the EcoScholars program specifically tailored for primary school and high school students called the EcoRangers program. Our approach to marine conversation has always involved children because we believe and know that they will lead climate and environmental impact projects in the near future. Join us as we celebrate our ocean, our people, and our future. Together, let’s make waves for change. You can reach out to our team by email via edadavara@gmail.com to purchase a table or support us by donating to the cause. Alternatively, our socials are active and can be found on LinkedIn ( Eda Davara Marine Sanctuary), Instagram (@eda,davara) and Tiktok (@eda.davara). We look forward to connecting with you. Our strength is our ocean. Our ocean is our future.