PNG Strengthens Ties with ADB as Marape Farewells Outgoing Country Director
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) during a farewell meeting with outgoing ADB Country Director Mr. Said Zaidansyah in Port Moresby.
The meeting, held at Melanesian Haus, recognised ADB’s extensive contribution to Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure and economic development. Under Mr. Zaidansyah’s leadership, ADB supported major initiatives including the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program, critical road rehabilitation projects, and financing Air Niugini’s new A220 fleet to upgrade domestic and international air services.
Prime Minister Marape expressed gratitude for ADB’s long-standing collaboration with PNG, describing the organisation as one of the country’s most valued partners. “Their support has been instrumental in building the foundations of our economy through infrastructure, energy, and transport connectivity,” he said.
He said the Government’s future focus includes expanding ADB’s role in education, agriculture, finance, and SME development as the nation approaches its 50th anniversary of independence. “We are now moving into a new era of national development — what I call the ‘National Reset,’” Marape said.
The Prime Minister also commended Mr. Zaidansyah for his service and highlighted ADB’s continued role in promoting governance, public sector reform, and economic resilience. Mr. Zaidansyah, for his part, expressed confidence in PNG’s growth prospects and pledged ADB’s ongoing support for the country’s development agenda.
Marape said the Government is embracing digital technology and artificial intelligence to improve public service delivery and strengthen collaboration with international partners. “We are investing in ICT and Artificial Intelligence to modernise government systems, improve efficiency, and strengthen collaboration with partners like ADB,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming ADB’s importance to Papua New Guinea’s progress. “We value this partnership deeply and look forward to working closely with the incoming Country Director to continue building a stronger, more inclusive, and resilient Papua New Guinea,” Marape said.
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