PNG, UAE seal visa waiver deal to boost trade and investment

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has taken another step in strengthening its diplomatic and economic ties with the United Arab Emirates following the signing of a Visa Waiver Agreement this week, a move expected to enhance trade and investment flows between the two nations.

 PNG, UAE seal visa waiver deal to boost trade and investment

The agreement was welcomed by Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru, who praised Prime Minister James Marape for formalising the arrangement with the UAE government.

Minister Maru said the visa-free travel arrangement would support PNG’s broader economic engagement with the Middle East, particularly as the country prepares to establish its diplomatic mission in Abu Dhabi later this year.

“This will complement our decision to open our Mission in Abu Dhabi this year,” he said.

He noted that the agreement comes at a strategic time, as PNG is currently negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, with talks expected to be finalised by November.

“It is also very timely as we are currently negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE which we plan to finalize by November this year,” Minister Maru said.

He said the visa waiver was an important step that would strengthen PNG’s position in CEPA negotiations and demonstrate the country’s credibility as a long-term trade and investment partner.

“Our State Negotiating team will be in the UAE before the end of this month for the first round of negotiations to be held in a face-to-face meeting as this will be the first of a series of negotiating sessions,” he said.