In a powerful speech at the Indo-Pacific Forum’s Discussion on Geopolitics and Rugby League, Papua New Guinea’s government extended its gratitude and support to key figures shaping the future of rugby league in the region.
On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko expressed profound appreciation to high-profile guests, including Mr. Joe Hockey, Global President of Bondi Partners; Emma Doyle, former Principal Deputy Chief of Staff to President Donald Trump; Richard V. Spencer, former U.S. Navy Secretary; ARLC Chairman Peter V’Landys; and Ambassador Kevin Rudd.
“Papua New Guinea is deeply appreciative of the opportunity to be part of the NRL here in Las Vegas,” Tkatchenko stated, underscoring the importance of Australia and the United States as key strategic, development, and trading partners.
A major highlight of the discussion was the announcement of Australia’s 10-year Pacific Rugby League Partnership, which promises to support grassroots rugby, elite rugby league pathways, and the eventual introduction of a PNG-based NRL side in an expanded NRL Telstra Premiership.
The partnership also includes PNG, Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji, all set to benefit from increased investment in rugby league development.
Rugby League is not just a popular sport in Papua New Guinea; it is regarded as the national sport.
“Rugby League can unite the country,” Tkachenko reiterated, echoing the words of Prime Minister James Marape.
In a country with vast and diverse communities, rugby league stands as a unifying force that brings people together.
The NRL’s expansion into PNG is seen as a major step in nation-building, offering investment opportunities, boosting tourism, creating employment, and enhancing education through rugby league academies and capacity-building programs.
“Rugby League will strengthen relations with Australia, PNG, and the Pacific Region, enhancing partnerships in trade, security, governance, and economic development,” Tkatchenko said, highlighting the significance of international collaboration.
The discussion also touched on the role of sports diplomacy, with rugby league playing a central role in strengthening the Pacific Islands Strategy, focused on democracy, prosperity, and resilience in the Pacific.
Tkatchenko also thanked the U.S. Government for its ongoing support in projects aimed at building community resilience and promoting democratic governance.
Looking ahead, Tkatchenko highlighted the potential of the Indo-Pacific Rugby League initiative to host world-first events, expanding the global footprint of the NRL, Super League, and international rugby league.
The growing popularity of these events offers new opportunities for tourism and development, as well as American investment in the region through sports diplomacy.
As the Indo-Pacific Rugby League movement gathers momentum, Papua New Guinea’s involvement promises to strengthen ties across the region, while creating new avenues for collaboration, growth, and shared prosperity.