PNG PARTICIPATES IN 81ST ESCAP SESSION
Papua New Guinea has participated in the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok, Thailand.
Department of National Planning and Monitoring Secretary Koney Samuel delivered PNG’s Country Statement on Agenda item 3:
“Regional Cooperation for Resilient and Sustainable Urban Development in Asia and the Pacific”.
Mr. Samuel highlighted the rapid demographic and urban transitions in PNG, with a population growth rate of 4.8 percent per annum—one of the highest in the region.
He said the unprecedented growth rate has contributed to rapid urbanization.
To address these challenges, Mr. Samuel outlined several key national policy frameworks, including the National Urbanization Policy 2010–2030 and the newly formulated National Housing Policy 2024–2034.
These initiatives aim to promote sustainable city planning, equitable access to housing, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
PNG’s involvement in the 81st ESCAP session is crucial for addressing its urban development challenges, aligning with global sustainability goals, and fostering regional collaboration to build resilient and inclusive cities.
Secretary Samuel also extended PNG’s appreciation to development partners and regional organisations, for their continued support in preparing PNG’s second Voluntary National Review Report. PNG will present this 2nd VNR at the High-Level Political Forum in New York in July this year, highlighting the country’s progress in implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The session started yesterday and will concluded on Saturday.
