PNG Welcomes Timor-Leste President for Oceans Summit and Bilateral Talks

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta to PNG ahead of high-level bilateral discussions and the opening of the inaugural Melanesian Oceans Summit 2026 in Port Moresby.

 PNG Welcomes Timor-Leste President for Oceans Summit and Bilateral Talks

President Ramos-Horta arrived in the country on Saturday for a four-day official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Marape, with talks expected to focus on strengthening relations between Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste.

The Timor-Leste leader will also take part in the first-ever Melanesian Oceans Summit, which begins on Monday and is expected to bring together Pacific leaders, ministers and regional representatives to discuss marine protection, climate adaptation and sustainable use of ocean resources.

Prime Minister Marape said the visit highlighted the close relationship shared by the two nations and reflected a united regional approach towards protecting the Pacific Ocean and addressing environmental challenges.

He said the summit would provide an important platform for Pacific countries to work together on issues affecting island nations, including ocean governance and climate resilience.

Delegations from 13 countries are attending the summit, including Fiji, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Tonga, Timor-Leste, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, the Philippines, Palau, Nauru, Australia, New Zealand and Solomon Islands.

“The presence of President Ramos-Horta underscores the shared commitment of our nations to regional cooperation and ocean stewardship,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“We welcome him warmly as we begin important discussions on our partnership and our common future in the Blue Pacific.”