Prime Minister James Marape left the country on Monday for an official visit to Guangzhou in Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China.
The trip, he told reporters, is aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and trade between Papua New Guinea and China.
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Speaking at a press conference at the APEC VIP terminal in Port Moresby, PM Marape said the trip follows earlier talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where Papua New Guinea was encouraged to work closely with Guangdong Province to improve economic ties.
PM Marape said the visit will mainly focus on trade, investment, and building a stronger economic partnership between both countries.
“In my bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping a few years back, he did set Papua New Guinea, you stay with Guangdong Province. This visit is about strengthening our economic relationship with China, with a strong focus on trade and investment.” he said.
He also said he has asked China to keep its market open for Papua New Guinea goods and to support fair trade between both sides.
PM Marape said he later learned that Guangdong is one of China’s strongest economic regions, with a population of over 120 million people and a major industrial base.
He noted that Guangdong would rank among the top global economies if it were a country.
“Guangdong Province is a strong economy. It is known for manufacturing and exports. Shenzhen grew from a fishing village into a major technology city.” he said.
PM Marape said the visit is part of wider efforts to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s economic ties with China, especially in mining, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.
He said China is still Papua New Guinea’s biggest trading partner.
“China remains the biggest market for our producers. Our coffee, cocoa, copper, oil palm and vanilla can now enter the Chinese market more easily.” he stated.
He said improved flight connections between Guangzhou and Port Moresby are helping trade and travel.
“We started with one flight a week, and now we have three flights a week.” Marape said.
PM Marape said Guangdong plays an important role in global trade.
“Guangdong is an economic powerhouse. Its economy is close to countries like Russia and Australia, and bigger than some others in parts of Asia.” he said.
He said the visit will focus on practical results that benefit both countries, including government, businesses, and producers.
“Our relationship with China must ensure trade grows and benefits both people and businesses.” he said.
Marape will spend three days in China meeting provincial leaders, investors, and business groups involved in mining, agriculture, and major projects such as Ramu Nickel.
He will be joined by senior ministers and officials including the Minister for Trade and Investment Richard Maru, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Fisheries, and members of parliament from Dei District and North Waghi District as representatives from the coffee producing areas.
“The approach is focused on attracting more investment and want more exports to go there. It is about building a strong economic relationship” Marape concludes.