National Capital District Governor, Powes Parkop has welcomed the Marape-Rosso Government’s support for the launch of China Southern Airlines’ new route connecting Guangzhou, Port Moresby, and Port Vila.
The inaugural flight on 29 April 2025 marks a major milestone in positioning Port Moresby as a key regional transit hub linking Asia and the Pacific.
“This is a proud and strategic moment for Port Moresby. It fully aligns with our vision to make Port Moresby a tourist hub and gateway. It also reflects our capital’s growing role in fostering regional connectivity and opens new doors for trade, and investment apart from tourism.”
The flight follows years of negotiations initiated in 2019 between PNG and Vanuatu. A delegation from Vanuatu, including former Prime Minister and current Leader of Government Business Charlot Salwai, visited Port Moresby to celebrate the launch and met with Prime Minister, James Marape and his officials last week.
Governor Parkop commended Prime Minister Marape’s leadership and commitment to formalizing Fifth Freedom Rights, which will enable smooth transit for passengers between PNG and Vanuatu.
These discussions are now progressing with both governments and China Southern Airlines.
Governor Parkop also highlighted the importance of the Framework Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation signed in 2024, which reinforces collaboration between PNG and Vanuatu across multiple sectors.
“It also follows the signing of the sister-city agreement between Port Moresby and Port Vila last year.”
“This airline route strengthens our historical ties and economic partnerships and enhances the sister city relationship between Port Moresby and Port Vila,” Governor Parkop said in a media statement today.
“Port Moresby is rising to meet its potential as the true gateway to Asia and the Pacific.”
Governor Parkop also announced that he has already commenced discussions between China Eastern Airlines to also fly to PNG either from Nanjing or Shanghai.
Governor Parkop said he hoped that this connection can be confirmed soon so it can provide more opportunities between PNG and, the Pacific and China especially the mega cities of Shanghai, Nanjing and other cities in the East of China.