Papua New Guineans will now benefit from a more reliable, secure and affordable digital connectivity under an expanded digital partnership between PNG and Australia.

Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with PNG’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Justin Tkatchenko, and Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Robert Naguri.

Under the agreement, the two countries will enter into an overarching MoU to establish a shared strategic framework for a comprehensive digital, critical technology and telecommunications partnership, with the aim of supporting PNG's digital transformation, affirming Australia as Papua New Guinea's ICT partner of choice and strengthening bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, Penny Wong stated that the agreement will not only strengthen connectivity but create more economic opportunities for Papua New Guineans.

“A more connected Papua New Guinea is a more resilient Papua New Guinea – stronger connectivity means stronger communities and greater economic opportunity.” Wong said.

Australia’s minister for Pacific Islands affairs, Pat Conroy, also mirrored similar sentiments.

“Reliable and affordable internet can transform how people access services, do business and connect with each other.” he said.