The PNG-Indonesia Monitoring and Evaluation Meeting 2025, was held on February 28, 2025, at the Loloata Island Resort. The meeting was co-chaired by the Secretary for the Department of Foreign Mr. Affairs Elias Wohengu, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, His Excellency, Andriana Supandy.

The meeting discussed important bilateral issues through responsible Government Agencies of both countries, with emphasis on the formalization and implementation of framework agreements, under key strategic areas of cooperations.

The discussions focused on political and Security Arrangements, Economic and Development Cooperation, Implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Education, Health, Capacity Building, Security and Intelligence, and Exchanges of Visits.

There were also discussions on Reciprocal Visa Arrangement for Diplomatic Officials/Staff and their Government Departments, and the Review of the 2013 Plan of Action for the Implementation of the Comprehensive Partnership between PNG and Indonesia.

Other important matter highlighted was the Proposal for the Republic of Indonesia Consulate Office in Daru, PNG and Merauke, Indonesia, to ensure effective management of ongoing and emerging issues in terms of cross border movements, administration and infrastructural development security and most significantly trade and investment opportunities.

PNG and Indonesia are important bilateral partners driven by their shared border and mutual interests. Given the level of Indonesian Government’s commitment to PNG’s development, it was crucial for PNG Government Agencies to provide feedback on progress of the implementations of arrangements and development programs. The Department of Foreign Affairs as a lead agency, coordinates and facilitates this while leading negotiations and framework arrangements in collaborations with line-agencies.

The Department of Foreign Affairs play crucial role to ensure that Papua New Guinea maintain strong position in all negotiations and agreements to bring relevance to PNG’s development aspirations and Foreign Policy interests.

Papua New Guinea and the Republic of Indonesia have enjoyed cordial relation over the years. PNG will continue to learn from Indonesia, strengthen cooperations, and navigate new opportunities in the areas of mutual interests.

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