PNG REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development.

PNG is a participant at the 81st session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), held from April 21 to 25, 2025, at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand.

On Day 2 of the sessions, Koney Samuel, Secretary for the Department of National Planning and Monitoring (DNPM) delivered PNG’s Country Statement on Agenda item 3: “Regional Cooperation for Resilient and Sustainable Urban Development in Asia and the Pacific”.

Mr. Samuel highlighted the rapid demographic and urban transitions in PNG, with a population growth rate of 4.8 percent per annum—one of the highest in the region.

“This unprecedented growth rate has contributed to rapid urbanization. We have seen a significant proportion of our population migrating from rural areas to urban centres in search of better socio-economic opportunities. This presents both challenges and opportunities in our efforts to create inclusive sustainable cities, and climate resilient infrastructure to support our diverse communities,” Mr. Samuel explained.

To address these challenges, Mr. Samuel outlined several key national policy frameworks, including the National Urbanization Policy 2010–2030 and the newly formulated National Housing Policy 2024–2034. These initiatives aim to promote sustainable city planning, equitable access to housing, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

As the country approaches its 50th year of independence Secretary Samuel reaffirmed PNG’s long-term development aspirations.

“The Vision 2050 aspires for Papua New Guinea to be a developed country by 2050. Our Government launched the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (2023–2027) with clear sectoral indicators and targets to progress our overarching Vision 2050 and also our commitment to the 2030 Agenda on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he said.

Mr. Samuel also acknowledged the country’s rich natural resources, which, if sustainably managed, can be translated into tangible assets that serve current and future generations.

PNG’s involvement in the 81st ESCAP session is crucial for addressing its urban development challenges, aligning with global sustainability goals, and fostering regional collaboration to build resilient and inclusive cities.

Secretary Samuel also extended PNG’s appreciation to development partners and regional organizations, particularly ESCAP, for their continued support in preparing PNG’s second Voluntary National Review (VNR) Report.

PNG will present this 2nd VNR at the High-Level Political Forum in New York in July this year, highlighting the country’s progress of implementation of the SDGs.