Kurt M. Campbell Deputy Secretary of State | Official Website
The United States and Papua New Guinea have issued a joint statement following their inaugural Strategic Partnership Dialogue in Washington, D.C. on October 10, 2024. The meeting was attended by U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Papua New Guinea Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso.
This dialogue marks the beginning of an annual event aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. According to the statement, "The establishment of this annual dialogue reflects the maturing of the bilateral relationship between the United States and Papua New Guinea." It further emphasizes that future dialogues will focus on areas of mutual interest and collaboration.
The discussions built upon previous commitments from visits earlier in 2024, including those under the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability launched in April 2022, and a Defense Cooperation Agreement signed in May 2023. The dialogue explored ways to modernize security relationships and accelerate efforts towards stability and shared goals globally.
Both countries committed to raising global ambition for reducing greenhouse gas emissions consistent with limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. They highlighted climate change as a significant concern, especially its effects in the Pacific region. The statement noted, "Climate vulnerability is a shared concern," emphasizing cooperation on humanitarian assistance and disaster risk reduction.
Economic cooperation was also addressed, with commitments to expand trade, investment, and support for women entrepreneurs. The dialogue reaffirmed efforts to enhance energy services through ongoing projects like the Papua New Guinea Electrification Partnership.
Cultural exchanges were another focal point, with initiatives such as establishing Sister City partnerships between cities in both countries and expanding educational opportunities for Papua New Guinean students in the U.S.
Campbell and Rosso agreed to hold the next Strategic Partnership Dialogue in Port Moresby during Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary of independence in 2025, continuing this annual consultation.
