China says it will fully support PNG in growing its petroleum industry for the long-term economic growth.
This follows the recent bilateral meeting between PNG Foreign Affairs Minister, Justin Tkatcheno and China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi in Manila.
In a statement put out by the PNG Foreign Affairs Department, a productive bilateral meeting was held on the margins of the ASEAN.
The meeting re-enforced China’s commitment to delivering targeted development aid to ensure the successful completion of several ongoing PNG-led projects.
As both nations approach the golden jubilee of their diplomatic relations, the Ministers committed to elevating their comprehensive strategic partnership based on mutual trust and practical cooperation.
China pledged to increase its investment in Papua New Guinea and provide full support for a new PNG Consulate-General in Guangzhou, which will include a Trade Office.
Minister Tkatchenko reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s merit-based commitment to the One-China Policy, highlighted by the sovereign decision to dissolve the Chinese Taipei Economic (Taiwan) Office in Port Moresby.
Following the closure of Taiwan’s representative office, Taiwan suspended approximately 500,000 metric tons of liquefied natural gas purchases from Papua New Guinea every six million, removing roughly $800 million of spot-market demand, though its long-term LNG supply contract of 1.2 million metric tons annually through 2030 remains untouched. Taiwan also warned that it is reviewing development assistance and other economic cooperation with PNG following the diplomatic dispute.
The move to close Taiwan’s physical office in PNG came weeks before a major Chinatown Development was launched in Port Moresby. The multi-billion kina project includes apartments and shopping malls and is considered the largest private foreign investment in Papua New Guinea.
China’s Foreign, Minister Wang Yi commended this historic milestone as a model of compliance that strengthens long-term bilateral ties. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department said it was deeply concerned by the decision, arguing that Taiwan’s unofficial relationships generate substantial economic, technological, commercial, and educational benefits.
PNG shares an economic relationship with China and has made it clear, its partner of choice for security is Australia. As of 2025, the trade between the two countries exceeded a record high K17 billion.
Based on data provided by the Chinese Embassy in Port Moresby, Chinese-owned shops and businesses employ an estimated 10,000 Papua New Guineans.
Foreign Minister, Wang Yi confirmed that China respects Papua New Guinea’s sovereign right to enter into regional security treaties, provided they do not harm China’s core national interests.
Tkatchenko provided a clear reassurance that Papua New Guinea’s security agreements, including the Pukpuk Treaty signed with Australia, are transparent, and do not compromise ties with China.
Minister Tkatchenko also requested China for assistance in building the capacity of nurses and medical staff, including the enhancement of medical training facilities.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister James Marape has been invited by Foreign Minister Wang Yi to attend the upcoming APEC Leaders’ Summit in China.
