United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has lauded Papua New Guinea's (PNG) significant contributions to global climate action and peacebuilding during a historic visit on September 2, 2025. This marked the first time a sitting UN chief addressed the South Pacific nation, ahead of its 50th anniversary of independence from Australia on September 16, 2025.
Addressing the National Parliament in Port Moresby, Guterres commended PNG for its "bold climate action." He specifically recognized the nation's instrumental role in prompting the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) advisory opinion in July 2025. This landmark opinion affirmed that nations failing to protect the planet from climate change could be in violation of international law, and those adversely affected may be entitled to reparations. The ICJ's non-binding opinion received submissions from multiple countries and organizations during the proceedings.
Guterres emphasized that PNG, which has extensive forests and marine ecosystems contributing to carbon absorption, is on the front lines of climate change impacts. He highlighted that genuine climate leadership often emerges from nations with a profound understanding of environmental stakes, rather than solely from the wealthiest countries. Prime Minister James Marape echoed this sentiment, reaffirming PNG's commitment to a green, resilient, and inclusive development path and stressing the greater responsibility of major carbon-emitting nations in addressing the climate crisis.
Furthermore, the Secretary-General commended PNG's sustained efforts in managing the Bougainville peace process, which has been in place for 24 years. The UN has provided crucial support throughout this process, including funding for weapons disposal and facilitating the 2019 referendum. Guterres highlighted the Bougainville Peace Agreement as a model for conflict resolution, emphasizing the path of healing through dialogue, perseverance, and mutual respect that PNG and Bougainville have demonstrated. The UN's Peacebuilding Fund has been instrumental in supporting reconciliation efforts in Bougainville, offering valuable lessons for other nations.
The Secretary-General's visit underscores the United Nations' appreciation for PNG's dedication to fostering unity amidst diversity, its democratic resilience, and its impactful role in advocating for climate justice and peace on the international stage.