Prime Minister James Marape is on a mission to ensure PNG and Australian Federal Police are working together to ensure closer security relations.
Prime Minister Marape travelled to Australia today to meet with his counterpart Anthony Albanese for this landmark agreement discussion tomorrow Thursday 7th December at the Canberra Parliament House.
This landmark agreement, among others, encompasses Australian Federal Police support for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, reinforcing mutual security interests in the region. Prime Minister Marape emphasized the strategic importance of this security arrangement for both Papua New Guinea and Australia.
“The security arrangement is in the best interest of Papua New Guinea and also for Australia and its regional security interests,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Cabinet will fully endorse the finer details before Prime Minister Albanese and I sign off. Australian police officers will work under the command and control of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the Police Commissioner.”
The agreement extends to potential Australian support for the Police Training Academy at Bomana and explores the creation of a regional academy within Papua New Guinea.
Prime Minister Marape highlighted this partnership between Australia and Papua New Guinea as enduring, particularly in strategic economic and bilateral relations. He underscored the shared security interests and the need to protect the sea border from illegal fishing and exploitation.
“Australia and Papua New Guinea share common security interests, and such security arrangements are vital to maintaining law-and-order in the region, safeguarding economic and trading interests,” the Prime Minister said.
In addition to the security agreement, Prime Minister Marape will attend the 17th PNG Resources and Energy Investment Conference & Exhibition set for December 10th-13th at the International Convention Centre in Sydney.
He notes that he will address businesses and major resources companies operating in Papua New Guinea, to promote the country as a favorable investment destination.
