The prime minister is currently in the United States to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this week where he intends to talk more about the country and the region in light of geopolitical tensions.

Prime Minister James Marape is attending the 81st Session of the UNGA in New York, where he will represent the country and address issues of national, regional and global importance.

The 81st United Nations General Assembly General Debate will be held at United Nations Headquarters in New York from 22–26 September and conclude on 28 September 2026.

Marape said Papua New Guinea (PNG) would use the global forum to contribute its voice on major international issues while advancing matters important to the country and the Pacific region.

“We will speak on issues affecting Papua New Guinea, our Pacific region and the wider global community, while contributing Papua New Guinea’s perspective to discussions on the major challenges facing the world.”

Prime Minister Marape said Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso will serve as Acting Prime Minister during his absence.

“Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso will once again hold the fort as Acting Prime Minister while I am away representing our country,” he said.