PNG Must Not Give Away Billions in Papua LNG Talks, Says O’Neill

Papua New Guinea must take a stronger stance in ongoing Papua LNG negotiations and avoid giving away billions in concessions, according to former prime minister Peter O'Neill.

He said the country is in a position of strength and should not be pressured into making costly compromises as discussions continue with key project partners.

 PNG Must Not Give Away Billions in Papua LNG Talks, Says O’Neill

O’Neill warned that the government under James Marape risks undermining national benefits if it proceeds with reported plans to offer around US$3 billion in concessions.

He described such a move as unacceptable, especially at a time when global instability is affecting operations of companies like TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil.

The former leader said PNG should instead capitalise on its reputation as a stable, non-conflict environment to negotiate improved outcomes.

He added that the original 2019 agreement had already secured key benefits for the country, including equity participation and increased LNG production capacity.

O’Neill also linked delays in major resource projects, including Porgera and Wafi-Golpu, to broader economic losses, saying missed opportunities have cost jobs and revenue.

He said thousands of employment opportunities tied to these projects have not materialised due to prolonged delays.

“We must act like the owners of the resource, not like desperate bystanders,” he said.

“James Marape must put the interests of Papua New Guineans ahead of the profit margins of global energy giants.”