On October 10, 2024, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Papua New Guinea’s Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso met in Washington, D.C., for the first U.S.-Papua New Guinea Strategic Partnership Dialogue (SPD). This annual dialogue marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries, reflecting their growing partnership built on shared values and mutual respect.
The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation between the U.S. and Papua New Guinea by fostering open communication on areas of mutual interest, such as security, economic growth, and climate change. The discussions built on previous commitments made during visits to both countries earlier in 2024, following the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability (SPCPS) launched in 2022 and the Defense Cooperation Agreement signed in 2023.
A key topic was the importance of modernizing the security relationship between the U.S. and Papua New Guinea, particularly to support a free and open Indo-Pacific. Both countries agreed to accelerate efforts under the SPCPS to promote stability and security in the Pacific region.
The dialogue also focused on tackling climate change. Both nations pledged to work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance resilience against the climate crisis, especially in the Pacific. They agreed on the need for major economies to meet their 2035 climate targets under the Paris Agreement and stressed the importance of halting deforestation to protect biodiversity.
Economic cooperation was another priority, with discussions on increasing trade and investment, improving aviation through an Open Skies agreement, and supporting women entrepreneurs. The two sides also emphasized the importance of managing Papua New Guinea’s mineral resources and expanding markets for sustainable economic growth.
Cultural exchange and educational opportunities were also discussed, including partnerships between cities in the U.S. and Papua New Guinea, and expanding educational opportunities for Papua New Guinean students at U.S. universities.
The next Strategic Partnership Dialogue will take place in Port Moresby in 2025, marking Papua New Guinea’s 50th independence anniversary. Both leaders expressed excitement about continuing to build on their strong partnership.
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