U.S. and Papua New Guinea Initiate Strategic Partnership Dialogue in Washington

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell (right) and Independent State of Papua New Guinea Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso (left) | Photo Credit: Kurt Campbell's X status.

On October 10, 2024, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Papua New Guinea’s Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso convened in Washington, D.C., marking the inaugural United States–Papua New Guinea Strategic Partnership Dialogue (SPD). This annual dialogue signifies the evolution of the bilateral relationship, which is grounded in shared values and mutual respect. The discussions aim to enhance collaboration on mutual interests and to find ways to use these shared principles to foster a more secure and prosperous future.

The Washington meeting built on commitments established during U.S. visits to Papua New Guinea earlier this year, as well as visits from Papua New Guinea officials to Washington. These commitments are supported by initiatives from the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability (SPCPS) launched in 2022 and a Defense Cooperation Agreement finalized in 2023. The representatives emphasized the potential of these agreements to modernize security ties, particularly in relation to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Both nations pledged to collaborate on addressing climate change, aiming to accelerate global efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate impacts, especially in the Pacific. They underscored the necessity for major economies to submit 2035 national contributions that align with the Paris Agreement's goals. Additionally, halting deforestation emerged as a key priority, as both countries recognize the critical role of forests in combating climate change.

The U.S. and Papua New Guinea also committed to enhancing economic cooperation, exploring trade and investment opportunities, and advancing a bilateral Open Skies agreement. They aim to support Papua New Guinea's governance of its mineral resources and enhance energy access, building on ongoing projects that have already improved electricity for over 255,000 households.

Cultural exchanges remain a focal point, with plans to foster people-to-people connections, including professional collaborations and the establishment of Sister City partnerships between various cities in both countries. These initiatives reflect a desire to deepen mutual understanding and appreciation.

Looking ahead, Deputy Secretary Campbell and Deputy Prime Minister Rosso plan to hold the next Strategic Partnership Dialogue in Port Moresby in 2025, coinciding with Papua New Guinea's 50th independence anniversary, and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing these annual consultations to strengthen their partnership.

tags: Asia Pacific, Indo Pacific, Pacific region, FOIP, Free and Open Indo Pacific, Papua New Guinea,