Papua New Guinea (PNG), a strategic maritime crossroads linking Asia, Australia, and the Americas, is positioning itself as a key player in regional development through enhanced cooperation with China. As APEC members intensify efforts to bolster economic resilience, PNG's geographic significance and resource-rich economy are drawing renewed attention from global partners.
In an exclusive interview with KhabarAsia.com, Nesambe Kairey of PNG's Department of Provincial and Local-Level Government Affairs emphasized the nation's commitment to fostering "win-win partnerships" under multilateral frameworks. "Our engagement with China goes beyond infrastructure development," Kairey noted. "We're collaborating on sustainable fisheries management, digital connectivity, and climate-resilient agriculture—priorities that align with APEC's 2040 vision."
Analysts highlight PNG's potential to become a logistics hub for Chinese-funded projects in the Pacific, particularly through its participation in the Belt and Road Initiative. Recent agreements focus on port modernization and renewable energy projects, with Chinese investment in PNG's LNG sector growing 18% year-on-year since 2022.
This evolving partnership comes as APEC members prepare for November's Leaders' Meeting in Peru, where sustainable development and regional supply chain integration will dominate discussions. PNG's dual role as both a resource exporter and emerging tech adopter positions it uniquely to bridge developed and developing economies in the Asia-Pacific.
