New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has made history as the first Kiwi leader to address Papua New Guinea’s Parliament, using the occasion to push for deeper Pacific cooperation and stronger ties with the region’s largest island nation.
In a speech delivered in Papua New Guinea Parliament, Luxon said the relationship between the two countries is anchored in shared history, regional solidarity, and a common vision for the future.
“Where you go, the Pacific goes. Where you succeed, the Pacific succeeds,” Luxon told MPs.
“It is a deep honour for me to address this Parliament today. I speak not only as New Zealand’s Prime Minister, but as a fellow Pacific leader.”
The visit comes as PNG prepares to mark 50 years of independence in September, and as both countries celebrate half a century of diplomatic ties. Luxon paid tribute to the people-to-people links built over decades through volunteers, aid workers, and business ties.
Luxon signalled New Zealand’s readiness to scale up support for PNG, particularly in areas such as democratic governance, trade, education, and climate resilience.
“There is more we can do, working together as partners, to contribute to Papua New Guinea’s development aspirations,” he said.
“I am ambitious for our relationship.”
He reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to the Papua New Guinea Electrification Partnership alongside Australia, Japan and the U.S, and expressed full support for the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Luxon also backed Pacific-led solutions to climate and development challenges, saying New Zealand would continue to support initiatives that strengthen regional resilience.
“As Pacific nations, we face many common challenges – the effects of climate change, economic vulnerability, and global instability,” he said.
“New Zealand believes that Pacific solutions must be led by Pacific voices. That’s why we are committed to listening, learning, and working together in genuine partnership.”
“Luxon also pledged to wok wantaim – work together – with PNG and the wider Pacific.
“New Zealand is committed to wok wantaim – working together – and will make good on our shared belief, that by working together New Zealand and Papua New Guinea can create a bright and bold future for ourselves and be an example to the world,” he said.
