Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko, speaking at the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in Vientiane, Laos People’s Democratic Republic, has emphasized Papua New Guinea's aspirations to join ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Tkatchenko highlighted PNG's long-standing association with ASEAN as an Observer and now as a Special Observer. "We have been associated with ASEAN for quite some time as Observer and now as Special Observer, but we have been a member of the ARF since 1999." "We are committed to the goals and objectives of the ARF." "Our desire to deepen our engagements with ASEAN and possible membership is one that PNG is serious about.” Tkatchenko underscored PNG's strategic location between Asia and the Pacific, its commitment to regional stability, and its large Exclusive Economic Zone rich in tuna. He highlighted the challenges PNG shares with both small Pacific island nations and larger Asian partners. "Papua New Guinea views the ARF as an important platform for discussing regional security and cooperation." "We would like to emphasize the importance of enhancing dialogue, building trust, and promoting collaborative efforts among member states to address security challenges.” Tkatchenko reinforced PNG's commitment to addressing climate change, maritime security, and transnational crime, advocating for inclusive dialogue and regional resilience. Laos is located in Southeast Asia. It is a landlocked country bordered by China to the north, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the southeast, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar (Burma) to the northwest. Vientiane is the capital city of Laos. The Forum ended on the afternoon of Saturday July 27th.

The Member for Samarai-Murua, Hon. Isi Henry Leonard, has firmly denied the existence of a third political camp amid circulating rumors. Leonard expressed frustration over claims that the Papuan Bloc was forming a separate faction with Gulf Governor Sir Chris Haiveta. "This is untrue and does not represent what the team in the Opposition stands for," Leonard stated. Leonard explained that he joined the Opposition from the government based on his own convictions against corruption and unfair practices. "I moved across from the government and joined the Opposition because of my own convictions that I did not want to be a part of a government that was unfair and corrupt." He also called for his fellow MPs from the Southern region to leave the government and join the Opposition. "The call I made on Friday (July 27th) is clear, as a Papuan leader, I have simply called for all my brother MPs from Southern region who are still in the government to move across and join us now in the Opposition." "If you cannot see what's happening to the state of our nation, at least another Papuan MP is reminding you now,." Leonard emphasized that the Papuan Bloc is not a third political camp but a call for like-minded Southern Region MPs to join the Opposition and work for change. "I am with this team now, and we are calling on all like-minded leaders to come over and join us in the Opposition to change the government," he reiterated in a statement on Sunday July 28th.

Sunday, July 28th, 2024, was a day of thrilling rugby action in Round 15 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, featuring intense matches across Papua New Guinea. MONI PLUS NCDC POM VIPERS VS. PRK MENDI MURUKS: At the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, the Moni Plus NCDC Pom Vipers faced off against the PRK Mendi Muruks. Despite a strong start, the Vipers succumbed to the Muruks with a final score of 12-20. The Vipers managed two tries, with Julius Yakopa scoring at the 11-minute mark and Jeremiah Lotipa at the 20th minute. Joel Gena converted one of the tries at the 12-minute mark, adding another two points, and Patrick Morea secured a penalty goal at the 29th minute. However, the Muruks proved to be formidable opponents. They scored four tries, with Douglas Tandaku at the 15th minute, Myles Posu at the 34th minute, Gabby Taune at the 52nd minute, and Ishmael Balkawa at the 58th minute leading the charge. Mark Tony's successful conversions at the 36th and 60th minutes sealed their victory. GAS RESOURCE CENTRAL DABARIS VS. WAMP NGA MT. HAGEN EAGLES: The final match of the day at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby saw the Gas Resource Central Dabaris triumph over the Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles with a decisive 38-14 victory. The Dabaris dominated with seven tries. Lega Batia scored at the 17th and 46th minutes, Rex Kaupa at the 21st minute, Bartholomew Evi at the 28th minute, Lote Kuman at the 34th minute, Matthew Wauwe at the 37th minute, and Douglas Pirika at the 62nd minute contributed to the Dabaris' score. Lote Kuman's five successful conversions were instrumental in securing the win. The Eagles' three tries by Dickson Pipi at the 49th minute, Sakias Komati at the 72nd minute, and Adam Korowa at the 74th minute were not enough to turn the tide. KMH ENGA MIOKS VS. KROTON HELA WIGMEN: In another exciting match at Aipus Oval in Wabag, the KMH Enga Mioks narrowly defeated the Kroton Hela Wigmen with a final score of 20-16. The Mioks, playing on their home turf, demonstrated resilience and determination. The Mioks' four tries came from Ian James at the 45th and 63rd minutes, Bradley Angra at the 55th minute, and Brandon Anis at the 71st minute. Andy Tand successfully converted two of the four attempts. The Wigmen responded with three tries, courtesy of Junior Igila at the 50th and 79th minutes and Kaupa Sipa at the 75th minute. Conversions by Solomon Pokare at the 52nd minute and Trevor Solu at the 80th minute kept the game close but not enough to secure a win. BINTANGOR GOROKA LAHANIS VS. PRK GULF ISOU: At the National Sports Institute (NSI) in Goroka, the Bintangor Goroka Lahanis emerged victorious over PRK Gulf Isou with a score of 26-18. The Lahanis showcased an impressive offensive strategy, scoring five tries. Ishmael Peter scored at the 1st minute, Paluse Ake at the 3rd minute, Zebedee Uruba at the 5th minute, Sefa Dait at the 20th minute, and Joseph Mocke at the 26th minute led the Lahanis' charge. Josiah Jimmy successfully converted three of the five attempts. Despite tries from Eliakim Lukara at the 19th minute, Alex Karu at the 35th minute, and Gairo Voro at the 38th minute, Gulf Isou fell short.

John Ume, a late addition to Team PNG, showcased immense determination and resilience in the 63.5kg weight class at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Despite being called up just seven days before his bout, following an injury to a boxer from Solomon Islands, John answered with pride and courage. Facing the formidable Cuban athlete, Erislandy Alvarez Borges, John displayed the spirit and tenacity that defines Team PNG. Alvarez, a silver medalist from the 2023 World Championships and an undefeated professional, proved to be a tough opponent. John fought valiantly, but in the second round, the referee stopped the match, awarding the victory to Alvarez. John’s participation, despite the short notice, is a testament to his resilience and dedication. His ability to step up at the last minute and face a top-tier opponent highlights the perseverance and pride of PNG athletes. Erislandy Alvarez Borges, who qualified for Paris 2024 by winning the decisive 63.5kg bout at the 2nd World Qualifying Tournament, continued to excel in Paris. With a weight class limit adjustment from 63kg in Tokyo 2020 to 63.5kg in 2024, Alvarez maintained his top form. The PNG Olympic Committee in a social media post said despite the outcome, John Ume’s participation in Paris 2024 has made his country proud. Team PNG stands proud of John’s remarkable effort and unwavering resilience on the Olympic stage.

Prime Minister James Marape has assured the people of Gulf Province that their K20 million Business Development Grant is secure, following a meeting with Gulf Governor Sir Chris Haiveta on Friday, July 26th. Marape clarified that a previous warrant error has been corrected and no funds meant for Gulf Province have been diverted elsewhere. He emphasized that budget provisions are in place to support Gulf’s participation in the Papua LNG project. Governor Haiveta, on Friday, July 26th, presented Marape with a letter stating his intention to withdraw from the parliamentary caucus to focus on local issues, though he will remain a member of Pangu Pati. Marape expressed understanding and support for Haiveta’s decision to advocate for Gulf’s resources, highlighting the province’s significant contributions in forestry, marine resources, and oil and gas. Marape acknowledged the importance of governors defending their provincial interests, whether part of the Government or Opposition. He commended Haiveta's dedication and maturity, ensuring that Gulf’s provincial interests will not be compromised. “We will support Governor Haiveta, and I give the assurance that his provincial interest will not be compromised, abused or sabotaged in the Pangu-led administration of which he is a big part of,” Marape said.

A major power outage is causing widespread disruption in parts of Jiwaka province and the city of Mt Hagen in the Western Highlands province due to a broken conductor on transmission Line L514. Efforts to restore electricity have been hindered by violent actions from disgruntled landowners, PNG Power Limited (PPL) reported today, Sunday 28th of July. The fault, which has left Kudjip feeders and parts of Mt Hagen without power, remains unresolved as PPL technical teams face roadblocks and aggression from local landowners. These barriers have prevented the teams from accessing the site to carry out necessary repairs. "Disgruntled landowners have blocked off the road to the area where the fault is located and resorted to violence towards PPL Team. PPL technical team are unable to access the site to rectify the fault," stated PPL. "PPL team are still liaising with the landowners to allow access." Due to this issue, the Dobel Feeders are undergoing load shedding to balance the load and maintain power usage for customers in critical areas. The affected areas include: Feeders Off: - Kudjip 1: Banz & Kitip - Kudjip 2: Minj Feeders on Load Shedding: - Dobel 1: Teachers College - Dobel 2: Town area & Hospital PNG WB - Dobel 4: Airport/Kagamuga, Kuli Gap & Avi A similar power outage had hit Jiwaka, and parts of Mt Hagen previously in March. PPL had reported then that a major power outage affected Jiwaka and parts of Mt. Hagen, due to a broken conductor on the same transmission Line L514. Again, PPL reported then that the disgruntled landowners had blocked access and resorting to violence had prevented PPL technical teams from fixing the issue. As a result, Dobel feeders were on load shedding to balance the load. According to PPL’s report posted on its official Facebook page on March 31st, landowners had burned a power pole, and continuous rain caused a landslip that snapped a conductor. Affected areas had included various feeders in Mt. Hagen, Jiwaka, and Kundiawa. PPL has reiterated for customers with standby generators and alternate power sources to use them during this outage, further apologizing for any inconvenience, saying it appreciates its customers’ patience and understanding at this time, as the power company continues to work towards a resolution and urges the community to cooperate to restore normalcy.

Prime Minister James Marape has commended Minister for Fisheries & Marine Resources, Jelta Wong, for his role in boosting regional cooperation in fisheries. This praise follows the appointment of Mr. Noan Pakop, the first Papua New Guinean as the new head of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (PIFFA). Prime Minister Marape declared his support for the East New Britain Pacific Industrial Park initiative, which aims to enhance the catching, processing, and exporting of tuna for Papua New Guinea and potentially other Pacific Islands Forum member countries. “I am proud of the ENB fisheries initiative and Minister Wong’s leadership,” Marape said. “Minister Wong has shown exemplary leadership in driving the East New Britain initiative and recently, across the region in pushing for the appointment of Mr. Pakop to head PIFFA.” Pakop’s recent appointment by the 23rd Forum Fisheries Committee Ministers in Honiara, Solomon Islands, is a significant milestone. He is the first Papua New Guinean to hold the position of PIFFA Director General since the agency's establishment in 1979. Marape emphasized the importance of Pakop's experience, stating, “Mr. Pakop’s candidacy was endorsed by the National Executive Council, and we are confident he will represent the region in a professional manner bringing to the fore his years of experience in the sector.” The East New Britain Industrial Park initiative, supported by PM Marape, aims to foster innovation and development across multiple sectors, including transport, communications, customs, immigration, labour mobility, and international trade, besides fisheries. This initiative was endorsed at the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum and discussed at the recent Japan-Pacific Islands Leaders’ Meeting in Tokyo. Highlighting the significance of the location, Marape said, “East New Britain was chosen because of the availability of Rabaul port, and the social stability offered by the people of East New Britain.” Prime Minister Marape encouraged other ministers to support the initiative, noting that it has the potential to benefit not just PNG but all small island nations of the Pacific by promoting onshore tuna processing.

Papua New Guinea’s STEM students are embarking on exciting international academic journeys. This month, 30 students travel to India, followed by another group heading to the USA in August, and a third group going to China in September. These initiatives are part of the government’s efforts to expand educational opportunities for the country’s brightest minds. Prime Minister James Marape, who spearheaded the STEM initiative, emphasized the government's commitment to education and global opportunities. “We are proud of our Grade 12 STEM students, who represent the cream of our educational system. This initiative is a testament to the government's unwavering commitment to advancing education and fostering global opportunities for PNG’s talented youth.” “I thank Education Minister Lucas Dekena, Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra, Dr. Clement Waine, and Mr. Benny Rayappan for working hard to make this a reality.” “Earlier this year, together with the visionary former Education Minister, the late Jimmy Uguro, I confirmed the continuation and expansion of the groundbreaking STEM scholarship program,” Marape said. The government is also exploring more scholarship opportunities for students in Hungary, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Indonesia. These efforts underscore the government’s dedication to fostering education and creating international opportunities for PNG’s talented youth. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, and is an interdisciplinary approach to education that integrates these four subjects to prepare students for careers in these fields. The goal of STEM education is to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation by providing students with a strong foundation in these core areas, and this approach is essential for developing the skills necessary to compete in a technology-driven and increasingly complex world. The first 30 students who left for India on Saturday, July 27th, include 14 females and 16 males. They excelled in their Grade 12 STEM studies in 2023 at the six national schools of excellence: Sogeri, Aiyura, Kerevat, Passam, Wawin, and Port Moresby. They are set to explore fields such as Artificial Intelligence, physiotherapy, biotechnology, mathematics, chemical engineering, and aerospace engineering. STEM careers span a wide range of fields, reflecting the broad applicability of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills. Examples include biologists, chemists, physicists, and environmental scientists in science; software developers, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, and IT managers in technology; civil, mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineers in engineering; and statisticians, actuaries, mathematicians, and operations research analysts in mathematics. Artificial Intelligence (AI) falls under technology but is also deeply connected to science and engineering. Careers in AI include AI developers, machine learning engineers, data scientists, AI research scientists, and robotics engineers, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of STEM fields. By expanding international opportunities for STEM students, Papua New Guinea is investing in a future driven by innovation, knowledge, and global collaboration. In Papua New Guinea, STEM students will be vital in driving the country's development across several key sectors. These include mining and petroleum, where engineers and environmental scientists will aid resource management; infrastructure development requiring civil engineers and urban planners; and the energy sector, focusing on renewable sources. Agriculture and fisheries will benefit from advancements in biotechnology and environmental science. Healthcare needs biomedical engineers and biotechnologists, while ICT will require software developers and cybersecurity experts. Additionally, educators and researchers will be crucial for sustaining STEM talent, and professionals in environmental conservation, manufacturing, and transportation will support sustainable development and economic growth.

A crucial piece of infrastructure, the K16 million Yalo Rural Bridge, was officially opened on Friday, July 26th in a landmark moment for Southern Highlands Province. Minister for Works and Highways, Solan Mirisim, inaugurated the bridge on behalf of Prime Minister James Marape. The Yalo Bridge, also known as the Epari-Koare Unity Bridge, is part of the Marape-Rosso Government’s Connect PNG Programme, a program that is currently being questioned by the Opposition in a court matter. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity and impact rural communities across the country. The bridge links Kagua district to Pangia district, facilitating easier transportation of agricultural produce and livestock to markets in Ialibu-Pangia, Imbongu, and major centers such as Mt Hagen and Lae cities. The enhanced connectivity is expected to be a game-changer for the region and will improve market access and boost economic activities, potentially leading to better livelihoods for locals in Ialibu-Pangia, Kagua-Erave, the Highlands region, and Gulf Province through Kikori. Designed by Ipro Puloro Engineering and constructed by China Harbour Engineering Company, the project was completed for K11 million, with an additional K5 million allocated for the panel supply component. "The Epari-Koare Unity Bridge is more than just a structure; it is a vital link that will unite communities and drive economic advancement in our region for generations to come,” Minister Mirisim said.

Prime Minister James Marape congratulated the Sir Theo Foundation on its 10th anniversary, praising its significant contributions to health care and early childhood learning in Papua New Guinea. At a major fundraising dinner and concert event at the Airways Hotel, attended by the Prime Minister and his wife, Mrs. Rachael Marape, funds were raised through an auction and donations. The evening featured an opera rock performance by Spanish singer Ms. Cristina Ramos. Prime Minister Marape commended the Sir Theo Foundation for its support of the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) and the Buk bilong Pikinini program, while remembering the Foundation’s founding director, the late Sir Theophilus Constantinou. “The Constantinou family has contributed immensely to the development of PNG in the tourism and hospitality sector, creating thousands of jobs for Papua New Guineans and bringing in the tourism dollar in provinces where their chain of hotels has gone,” said Marape. “The late Sir Theophilus was the chairman of the Port Moresby General Hospital board and was very aware of the needs of PMGH.” “He started this Foundation in 2014 to help support our premier hospital, and although he has parted from us in 2019, Sir Theo’s legacy continues unabated.” “The Sir Theo Foundation continues to raise money every year to support PMGH, schools in NCD, and literacy programs such as Buk bilong Pikinini.” During the event, the Foundation also presented a cheque to support the Kokoda Track Foundation. “I commend and congratulate the Sir Theo Foundation on its 10th anniversary, and pay respects to the memory of its founder, my friend, the remarkable Sir Theophilus Constantinou,” Marape said.

The Porgera Gold Mine continues to thrive despite the recent challenges posed by the Mulitaka landslide, but the need for maintaining law and order has emerged as a critical factor for its ongoing success, according to Barrick President and CEO Mark Bristow. New Porgera Limited (NPL) has reported that since resuming operations in December last year, the mine has met or exceeded its targets, with gold production for the first half of 2024 surpassing expectations and all-in sustaining costs trending lower. Bristow, who visited Papua New Guinea to review NPL’s second-quarter results, emphasized the importance of law and order for the mine's continued operation and profitability. "The greatest threat to the continued operation and profitability of the mine is the lack of law and order. It requires the active support of all stakeholders to ensure that Porgera can continue to deliver benefits in line with its potential as a Tier One asset," Bristow stated. A Tier One Gold Asset is defined as an asset with a $1,300/oz reserve, potential for 5 million ounces, supporting a minimum 10-year life, annual production of at least 500,000 ounces of gold, and all-in sustaining costs per ounce in the lower half of the industry cost curve, and Tier One Assets must be located in a world-class geological district with potential for organic reserve growth and long-term geologically driven addition. Bristow further praised the mine's rapid response to the Mulitaka landslide. "Reacting rapidly to the disaster, our teams put into operation an air bridge and a temporary pipe across the slip to supply fuel and essential goods not only to the mine but also to local businesses serving the tens of thousands of residents of the Porgera valley," he said. He also expressed his deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the landslide victims and reaffirmed NPL’s commitment to the affected communities. During his visit, Bristow met with Prime Minister James Marape, Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas, and Provincial Administrator Sandis Tsaka to discuss the Mulitaka recovery and other critical issues. They emphasized the importance of the New Porgera Community Development Agreement (CDA) in ensuring fair and equitable benefits for all eligible landowners and the wider Porgeran community. "NPL stands ready to pay benefits directly to landowner households, without going through middlemen, once the CDA is executed," Bristow said. NPL has played an active role in the rehabilitation efforts in Mulitaka. Porgera employees have been on the ground daily and are embedded at the Enga Provincial Government’s disaster relief center in Wabag. They assist with delivering essential goods and fuel and contribute geotechnical expertise to ground stabilization and the design of a new bypass road. Barrick and its JV partner Zijin have also contributed US$1 million towards relief efforts, with half already deployed. Prime Minister Marape commended NPL for their resilience and commitment. "I commend New Porgera Ltd, and especially operator Barrick, for the work it has done since mine resumption last December. I am happy that the mine is near almost 100 percent production now after overcoming so many obstacles," Marape said. He also highlighted the importance of ramping up security and improving road access in partnership with NPL. Currently, NPL employs 2, 500 people, with 57% from Porgera and Enga, 40% from the rest of Papua New Guinea, and 3% expatriates. The mine achieved several key milestones this year, including pouring its first gold in January, restoring electricity from the Hides power plant in April, and completing a throughput performance test four months ahead of schedule in June.

Rabaul Town came alive on Saturday, July 27, 2024, as the Queen Elizabeth Park Rugby League Ground hosted its first game in 30 years. The Digicel Cup match between Rabaul Agmark Gurias and Lae Snax Tigers ended in a 14-all draw, marking a significant milestone since the volcanic eruptions of September 1994. Prime Minister James Marape praised East New Britain Governor Michael Marum for his vision and leadership in reopening Rabaul. "I commend Governor Marum for his leadership in the reopening of Rabaul, which has enabled the National Government to come in and assist going forward," said Prime Minister Marape. The National Executive Council (NEC) recently approved the lifting of the moratorium on Rabaul town and surrounding areas to promote business growth and development. This moratorium had been in place since the twin volcanic eruptions displaced over 100,000 people. To support the redevelopment, the NEC has allocated K10 million to the East New Britain Provincial Government for clearing ashes and reopening the town. Additionally, K3 million will be used to issue land titles to those displaced, K5 million for a comprehensive town restoration study, and a K50 million initial funding envelope for reopening the port and other facilities. Prime Minister Marape, a supporter of rugby league, highlighted the redevelopment of Queen Elizabeth Park by Governor Marum, a former national player and coach. "The long-neglected Queen Elizabeth Park has been redeveloped with facilities to host national events of importance," he said, adding that the game drew large crowds from the four districts of East New Britain to Rabaul. Marape also thanked the people and businesses of East New Britain for their support in rebuilding Rabaul after 30 years.