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SYDNEY (Reuters) – Papua-New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape will pay a state visit to Australia, his government said on Tuesday, seeking to consolidate his position with the new head of Pacific island diplomacy. to growing competition of influence in the region.
Marape, who will be accompanied by several cabinet ministers during his visit next week, will be the first foreign leader to visit Australia since the re-election of Prime Minister Scott Morrison in May.
"Discussions will focus on opportunities to boost trade and investment, how to address common regional challenges and how to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the areas of labor mobility, defense and security, "Morrison's office said in a statement.
Marape will be in Australia from July 21st to 26th.
Australia has long enjoyed a near-uncontrolled influence in the Pacific, but its position has been challenged by China in recent years as it increases aid to the sparsely populated area that controls vast expanses of land. of ocean rich in resources.
China denies seeking influence in the Pacific, saying its aid must contribute to economic development.
In recent years, PNG has turned more to China for funding, and China has built a particularly strong relationship with its former Prime Minister Peter O'Neil.
O'Neil was the first Pacific CEO to sign up for China's Belt and Road Infrastructure Program. He has met with President Xi Jinping more than a dozen times during his tenure, making Australia fear that his influence in PNG will falter.
Report by Colin Packham; Edited by Robert Birsel
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