PNG PM Marape Welcomes Successful Outcome of PNG-Australia Ministerial Forum

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, James Marape, has welcomed the successful outcomes of the 29th Australia – P-N-G Ministerial Forum, held in Canberra, last week.  

That was the first in-person forum since 2019. 

Mr Marape in a statement said one of the most significant outcomes is the breakthrough in the discussions of visa arrangements, which will see at least 75 percent of completed visitor visa applications will be processed within 14 days, with in-country visa processing in P-N-G. 

He says this expands opportunities for Papua New Guineans to enter the Australian Labour market, including increasing training and skilled labour under the new Australian Pacific Engagement Visa. 

Mr Marape also thanked the P-N-G team led by Foreign Minister, Justin Tkatckenko, for a fruitful meeting, which will be mutually beneficial for both countries. 

NBC News / PNG Today

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