Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko has expressed interest for the country to become full Association of South East Asian Nations.
Tkachenko made this known while attending the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) 32nd Regional Forum (ARF) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on July, 11th 2025.
PNG has been an ASEAN Special Observer since 1976 and a permanent ASEAN Regional Forum member since 1994.
He said the country is ready to submit in writing to become a full ASEAN member.
“Papua New Guinea stands with one foot in Asia and one in the Pacific,” Tkachenko stated.
“Our inclusion would enhance ASEAN’s influence in the Indo-Pacific, particularly amid growing geopolitical tensions and cross-border security challenges.”
“PNG’s inclusion would give ASEAN an economic foothold in the Pacific and unlock trade and investment opportunities,” He added.
“The recent imposition of tariffs by major powers has impacted ASEAN’s economic security. PNG’s vast resource base can offer a reliable partner for diversification and growth.”
He made these comments based on PNG’s abundant natural resources, including major LNG and crude oil exports, a 2.4 million square kilometers and globally significant biodiversity.
Tkatchenko also held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from ASEAN including Indonesia, Singapore, Australia, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, New Zealand, Thailand and Turkey.
The discussions focused on deepening relations and rallying support for PNG’s ASEAN membership aspirations.
Although PNG has not yet submitted a formal application for full membership, the Department of Foreign Affairs will now prepare a Cabinet Policy Submission for consideration by the National Executive Council (NEC).
“PNG respects the ASEAN process and stands ready to commit fully to its obligations, initiatives, and agreements. We offer strategic geography, surplus resources, and steadfast commitment to peace and regional cooperation.”
This renewed bid marks a pivotal step in PNG’s 49-year engagement with ASEAN and its continued role as a bridge between Asia and the Pacific.
