NCD GOVERNOR REPRESENTS PAPUA NEW GUINEA AT ASEAN GOVERNORS AND MAYORS FORUM 2025
National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop is in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, attending the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF) from the 12 -14 of August 2025.
His visit marks the first time that an NCD Governor and possibly Papua New Guinea has been invited to participate in the event.
Papua New Guinea’s involvement underscores its strategic position as a Pacific Island nation and a vital link between ASEAN and the Pacific region.
The AGMF serves as a platform for capital city leaders, major municipalities, and provincial governments to share experiences, strengthen partnerships and collaborate on sustainable urban development.
With the theme, “ASEAN Future Cities and Regions: Inclusively and sustainably”, aligns with PNG’s development priorities and its aim to deepen integration into regional networks.
Governor Parkop noted that the 21st century is often described as the “Asian Century” and stressed the need for Papua New Guinea to position itself as a natural bridge between Asia and the Pacific.
He said his attendance would help build the partnerships necessary to achieve this vision and also supports PNG’s ongoing bid for ASEAN membership, while promoting investment, tourism, trade and sustainable urban development practices.
During the forum, Governor Parkop was scheduled to attend the Grand Opening Ceremony, participate as a panellist in the First City Dialogue on financing for sustainable development, and join the AGMF meeting to exchange strategic insights with ASEAN leaders.
The event coincides with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary, adding significance to efforts aimed at strengthening regional ties. Parkop’s representation is seen as an important step toward positioning Port Moresby as the Pacific’s gateway to Southeast Asia, fostering long-term collaboration for inclusive and climate-resilient cities.
