PNG University of Goroka Unrest Prompts Provinces to Evacuate Students

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape used the global stage at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, to call for urgent financial support for forest nations and stronger international partnerships to address the worsening climate crisis. Speaking to world leaders, he emphasised the vital role of tropical forests and oceans in protecting the planet.

Marape told the summit that climate action is not optional for PNG but essential for the country’s survival. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, highlighting the importance of Articles 5 and 6, which assist nations that preserve forests and operate within regulated carbon market systems.

The Prime Minister reminded the international community of PNG’s vast natural assets, including 35 million hectares of rainforest and one of the richest biodiversity reserves on Earth. He said these resources underpin global climate stability and must be supported through proper conservation financing.

While in Brazil, Marape met President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, where they agreed to expand cooperation in climate resilience, clean energy, agriculture, and environmental protection. Both leaders confirmed plans to open embassies in each other’s countries and build stronger diplomatic ties.

Marape introduced the “Pacific-to-Amazon” concept, aimed at linking forest-rich regions across the Pacific and Latin America to work together on climate and sustainable development. He also supported the Baku–Belém Roadmap, which promotes a reformed financial system capable of providing long-term funding for developing nations.

He noted PNG’s ongoing efforts to stop deforestation, restore damaged lands, and protect its ocean territory from illegal activities. Under the Earth3 Platform, PNG is advancing carbon credit projects to safeguard forests while supporting rural communities.

“There is no planet like Earth, rivers, trees, mountains, and oceans sustain life. Mars and Mercury are uninhabitable. This planet is worth fighting for. Let us save it together.”

Also read

PNG University of Goroka Unrest Prompts Provinces to Evacuate Students