Papua New Guinea is looking forward to hosting a 2nd bilateral policy consultation meeting with the Philippines in 2026. This follows the successful inaugural PNG-Philippines Bilateral Policy Consultation and Meeting in Manila, Philippines on April 4 between PNG’s Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko and the Republic of Philippines Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Enrique A Manalo. Minister Justin Tkatchenko said he is satisfied with current cooperation agreements negotiated with the Philippines so far and looks forward to expanding and diversifying their mutual interests. The inaugural policy consultation followed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) reached on the margins of the 2023 APEC Leaders’ Summit in San Francisco, California, US, and with outcomes reached amicably, it now paves the way for more such meetings in the future. Minister Tkatchenko said that both sides have abundant natural resources and can learn from each other through cooperation specifically in the fisheries, agriculture, tourism, and downstream processing. In a joint press conference in Manila on Thursday, April 4, Minister Tkatchenko said the purpose of the PNG/Philippines Policy Consultations and Meeting is to establish a mechanism to enhance communication and coordination between the two governments on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. “I am pleased that trade and economic relations between the two countries is steadily increasing and should continue to expand and diversify.” “There are vast untapped opportunities that can be further harnessed and developed by both countries through cooperation for mutual benefits.” He said formal diplomatic relations were established between the two immediately after PNG gained independence on September 16, 1975, and at the Ambassadorial level. Since then, both have maintained cordial relations. “I am grateful and satisfied on the overall discussions and assure the PNG Government’s continued support to working closely with the Philippines Government in further developing bilateral relations.” Minister Tkatchenko further said he looks forward to welcoming Foreign Secretary Manalo and his delegation for the 2nd Bilateral Policy Consultation in PNG at a mutually convenient time in 2026.