Prime Minister James Marape says Papua New Guinea is ready to lead regional and global conversations on ocean conservation and sustainable marine management.
Opening the Melanesian Oceans Summit in Port Moresby, Mr. Marape welcomed leaders from across Melanesia, Polynesia, Micronesia, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and Timor-Leste.
He said the summit brings together nations connected by the Pacific Ocean and united by the need to protect marine ecosystems from climate change and environmental destruction.
Mr Marape described Papua New Guinea as a major Pacific nation with over 5,000 kilometres of coastline and some of the richest biodiversity in the world.
He said PNG contains six to seven percent of the world’s known biodiversity and plays an important role in linking marine regions stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean.
The Prime Minister highlighted PNG’s extensive Exclusive Economic Zone, saying the country’s ocean resources could feed its population many times over if managed sustainably.
He also pointed to important marine areas connected to PNG waters, including the Bismarck Solomon Sea and Coral Triangle region.
Mr. Marape said Pacific nations are working together under regional frameworks to strengthen conservation efforts and ensure long-term protection of oceans and marine life.
He praised Pacific leaders and regional organisations for supporting the summit and contributing towards a shared vision for ocean sustainability.
The Prime Minister said protecting oceans is not just about environmental conservation but also about safeguarding food security, livelihoods and future economic opportunities.
He described the ocean as central to Pacific identity and culture.
“Ocean is us,” he told delegates.
Mr. Marape also used the summit to push for stronger climate action, noting that Pacific countries continue to experience severe impacts from rising sea levels and changing weather patterns despite having small carbon footprints.
He announced that Papua New Guinea is beginning a transition towards renewable energy and electric vehicles as part of efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
The Prime Minister said Pacific nations must continue advocating for sustainable development and responsible use of natural resources.
He encouraged summit participants to use the conference to strengthen a united Pacific voice on ocean conservation and climate action.
Mr. Marape said Papua New Guinea would continue supporting regional and international efforts to ensure oceans remain healthy and productive for generations to come.
