Tuesday 2nd September, 2025
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres arrived in Papua New Guinea today, marking the first time a sitting UN chief has visited the country.
He was officially welcomed by His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae at Government House today.
“We appreciate your decision to visit Papua New Guinea, especially during our 50th Independence anniversary. We’re grateful for the work of the UN in reaching our rural communities,” Sir Bob said.
Guterres, who is scheduled to visit East Sepik and Western Highlands Provinces, praised PNG’s unity amid cultural diversity.
“Despite having numerous ethnic groups and languages, PNG remains united. Your peaceful resolution of the Bougainville crisis exemplifies the power of democracy,” Guterres said.
The Secretary General also highlighted PNG’s resilience to climate change.
“Your efforts to address climate issues are admirable. Unlike developed nations, PNG has contributed little to global emissions but faces its impacts. I assure you of our full support,” Guterres stated.
He emphasized the importance of international cooperation and warned against exploitation of PNG’s natural resources.
“Pacific Island nations, though small, have the vast Pacific Ocean as their greatest resource, which must be preserved,” he added.
Guterres’s itinerary includes visits to Wewak and Mt. Hagen before departing Port Moresby on Friday September 5.
The visit signals PNG’s growing international profile and its commitment to sustainable development.