United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres concluded a historic visit to Papua New Guinea, praising the Pacific nation as a “remarkable example” of democratic resilience and environmental stewardship.

During his first official trip to the country, Mr. Guterres commended Papua New Guinea’s 50-year legacy as a multilingual democracy, where over 800 languages are spoken. Standing alongside Prime Minister James Marape, he highlighted the nation’s commitment to peaceful dialogue and multilateral cooperation in a world where democratic values are increasingly under pressure.

🌿 Climate Justice for a Carbon-Negative Nation

The Secretary-General’s visit included a journey into the country’s lush rainforest regions, where he met with civil society leaders to discuss the escalating impact of climate change. He emphasized that Papua New Guinea contributes minimally to global emissions and instead acts as a vital carbon sink, thanks to its expansive forests and marine ecosystems.

“Papua New Guinea has a negative emissions record,” Mr. Guterres noted, calling for global recognition and support. “It’s time for climate justice.”

💰 Economic Equity and Global Reform

Despite its environmental contributions, Papua New Guinea faces economic hurdles due to its classification as a middle-income country—limiting access to concessional funding and debt relief. Mr. Guterres described this as a “funding injustice” and urged reforms to the global financial system, advocating for greater representation and resource access for developing nations.