Prime Minister James Marape when meeting U.S Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Her Excellency Ann Marie Yastishock on Tuesday to discuss topics to strengthen bilateral relations between PNG and the U.S, also discussed economic development and the importance of increasing U.S investment in PNG. Ambassador Yastishock acknowledged the untapped potential PNG’s economy and committed to working with American businesses to explore investment opportunities. “There is a significant amount of investment potential here, and we aim to encourage U.S companies to explore these opportunities in collaboration with the PNG government,” she said. PM Marape underscored the importance of sustainable economic partnerships, stating, “We welcome more U.S investments in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure and technology. PNG is open for business, and we are committed to creating an environment that attracts international investors. Recognizing PNG’s unique geopolitical position as a bridge between the Pacific and Southeast Asia, the leaders discussed PNG’s aspirations to join ASEAN as a full member. “Papua New Guinea’s geographic and strategic positioning makes it a natural link between Asia and the Pacific. We look forward to strengthening our role in regional organizations to promote collaboration and shared prosperity,” Mr. Marape said. Ambassador Yastishock highlighted U.S efforts to assist PNG in addressing human trafficking and improving its standing in the U.S State Department’s Trafficking Persons (TIP) Report. She expressed gratitude for PNG’s collaboration in providing critical data to improve its ranking. “We are committed to working together to address human trafficking and other critical human rights issues,” she said. As PNG and the United States prepare to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, Ambassador Yastishock extended an invitation from Washington for PM Marape to participate in commemorative events. She noted that senior U.S officials are likely to visit PNG during this milestone year, further underscoring the importance of the partnership.