Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea and Prime Minister Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas of Vanuatu recently signed a framework agreement that solidifies a commitment between their nations to enhance economic and technical cooperation for mutual benefit. The signing took place at the Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia, Samoa, on the side lines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), reflecting the significance of this accord within a broader context of regional collaboration.
This agreement builds on the long-standing relationship between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, two nations that share deep cultural and historical bonds as members of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG). The MSG, a trade bloc that includes other Melanesian countries, is aimed at fostering political solidarity and economic integration among its members. Both countries see this framework as an opportunity to strengthen trade within the bloc, enhance regional stability, and advance collective goals such as sustainable development and disaster resilience.
Prime Minister Marape expressed his appreciation for Vanuatu’s leadership in formalising this partnership, noting PNG’s long history of supporting Vanuatu, particularly during its early years of independence. He highlighted PNG’s continued dedication to fostering prosperity in the region, emphasising that this framework would serve as a platform for both countries to expand cooperation across a range of sectors. Prime Minister Tabimasmas acknowledged PNG’s previous assistance, including during times of natural disasters, and praised the collaborative efforts of government officials in both nations that culminated in this agreement.
The agreement covers numerous areas of mutual interest, paving the way for cooperation in agriculture, air services, and trade, as well as joint efforts in climate change adaptation, defence, and security. Both nations are keen to leverage their unique strengths — PNG’s resource-rich economy and Vanuatu’s tourism and service-oriented economy — to develop complementary sectors that benefit their citizens. The framework also includes provisions for double taxation agreements, education and human resource development, and health and infrastructure projects, enhancing the economic and social interconnectedness between the two countries.
Notably, the scope of cooperation extends to marine and fisheries management, policing, mining and energy, and tourism and cultural exchange, aligning with shared goals under the MSG framework to build resilient economies. This commitment also underscores the importance of disaster management, a pressing concern for both countries that are frequently impacted by natural calamities. PNG and Vanuatu aim to strengthen collaborative approaches to disaster response, health services, and youth development.
The signing ceremony was attended by key PNG ministers, including Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko and International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru, among others. The agreement represents a promising step toward deeper integration and shared growth within two key members of the MSG.
