PORT MORESBY, PAPUA NEW GUINEA (19 June 2024) — Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice-President Scott Morris arrived in Papua New Guinea (PNG) today to discuss ADB’s assistance program with various stakeholders, including high-level government officials and civil society, and visit project sites.

Mr. Morris, who is responsible for ADB’s operations in East Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific, plans to meet Prime Minister James Marape, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Treasury Matters Ian Ling Stuckey, Minister of National Planning Ano Pala, Minister for Works and Highways Solan Mirisim, and other government officials and development partners.

Discussions will focus on ADB’s strategic priorities for support in the country and opportunities to strengthen ADB’s country partnership strategy for PNG.

“ADB is committed to increasing and diversifying funding sources for infrastructure development that meets the highest international quality standards; is future-proof, resilient, and  fit for purpose in Papua New Guinea; and maximizes value for money and local participation,” said Mr. Morris. “ADB will continue its strong support for climate resilience, private sector development, and human capital development in PNG.”

ADB’s current assistance program in PNG is focused on improving transport infrastructure, with priority on roads and civil aviation; building resilience to climate change; strengthening public sector management; and expanding access to energy, health, and education services. Moving forward ADB’s support to PNG will also emphasize investments water, sanitation, hygiene, agriculture, and financial inclusion.

PNG joined ADB in 1971. As of 2023, ADB had committed 271 public sector loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling $4.7 billion to PNG. ADB’s current sovereign portfolio includes 11 projects worth $1.39 billion.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.