NZ backs inclusive dialogue at Forum leaders’ summit

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced that New Zealand will continue to invite all dialogue partners to the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting.

The decision comes in response to concerns about Taiwan's participation in this year's meeting in the Solomon Islands.

As part of his official state visit to Papua New Guinea, Luxon revealed new design plans from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a new High Commission building in Port Moresby.

He also committed to providing fisheries scholarships that will fund the full educational costs for selected applicants studying in New Zealand.

Reflecting on the long-standing relationship between New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, Luxon says, “You leave here feeling very proud about the relationship that we've built over 50 years, but very excited actually about the next 50 years and what comes by us working together.”

The visit comes just a month ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence from Australia and shortly before the annual leaders’ meeting in Honiara.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and PNG Prime Minister James Marape. Photo/PMN News/Ala Vailala

When asked about New Zealand’s position on Taiwan's limited access to this year’s meeting, Luxon says he wants to maintain the current approach, adding that “different countries throughout the Pacific have their different stances.

“What we would underscore is the approach that we've taken over a number of years, where dialogue partners, all dialogue partners, are invited, is actually a good thing.”

It’s also worth noting that the Solomon Islands may choose to exclude China, the United States, and other countries from the upcoming leaders’ meeting.

This year's PIFLM theme is Umi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent. Photo/Supplied

During his trip to PNG, Luxon also announced several funding commitments to address the current polio epidemic and to improve maritime security efforts.

He delivered a speech to Papua New Guinea’s Parliament, becoming the second world leader to do so and the first New Zealand Prime Minister to make this address.

“Papua New Guinea is a country with big aspirations, with plans to expand its economy and play a bigger role in the Indo-Pacific. We are committed to supporting Papua New Guinea to achieve its goals.”

Papua New Guinea will celebrate its 50th Independence Day on 16 September, with Foreign Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters representing the New Zealand government at the festivities.

Listen to Christopher Luxon and James Marape's interviews here