Prime Minister (PM) James Marape on Tuesday 28, January 2025 met with U.S Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Her Excellency Ann Marie Yastishock to strengthen bilateral relations. The meeting was for a comprehensive discussion aimed at reinforcing the growing partnership between Papua New Guinea and the United States. The meeting highlighted critical areas of cooperation, including security, environmental policy, economic growth and regional stability. PM Marape and Ambassador Yastishock reaffirmed their mutual commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties as both countries prepare to celebrate 50 years of bilateral relations this year. The Prime Minister remarked, “The United States has been a longstanding friend to PNG. Our partnership has spanned decades and has proven crucial in areas such as defence, development and climate action.” The leaders also reflected on the U.S-PNG Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA), signed in 2023. Ambassador Yastishock assured PM Marape that the agreement enjoys strong bipartisan support in Washington and will remain a cornerstone of the U.S-PNG relationship. “We have communicated the importance of the DCA to Washington, and we expect the partnership to grow stronger in the years ahead,” she added. PM Marape expressed his gratitude for the DCA and its role in ensuring regional security. “This agreement is not just about defence, it is about strengthening PNG’s role as a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific,” he said. The leaders discussed plans for future high-level military exchanges and joint exercises aimed at enhancing regional stability and resilience. The leaders also touched on environmental issues, particularly PNG’s commitment to conservation and global climate goals. While addressing the U.S withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, Ambassador Yastishock emphasized that climate action remains a priority for the U.S Government. “The United States remains committed to balancing climate action, energy security and economic prosperity. We look forward to finding practical ways to work together to achieve these shared goals,” Ambassador Yastishock said.