Papua New Guinea has reaffirmed its commitment to successfully hosting the 42nd Board Meeting of the United Nations Green Climate Fund (GCF), scheduled for the last week of June this year in Port Moresby.
The GCF Board Meeting is expected to attract more than 300 international delegates, marking the first time the board will convene in the Pacific region.
The Green Climate Fund, established under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, manages global financing for climate-related programs and initiatives worldwide.
Minister for Environment, Conservation, and Climate Change, Hon. Simo Kilepa, MP, gave this assurance during a meeting with the visiting GCF advanced technical team, who are on a three-day tour of the capital to assess preparations for the high-level event.
“We are ready, both logistically and financially, to host this important event, which aligns with the many activities leading up to our country’s 50th independence anniversary celebrations,” Minister Kilepa said.
The Minister emphasized PNG’s strong stance on climate change, referencing Prime Minister James Marape’s recent statements criticizing US President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw from key climate commitments.
“Our Prime Minister has boldly spoken out on behalf of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the global fight against climate change,” Minister Kilepa added.
The National Capital District Governor, Hon. Powes Parkop, also assured the visiting team of Port Moresby’s readiness, citing the city’s successful track record of hosting major international events.
“We have hosted the 2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, the 2018 APEC Summit, and, more recently, the visit of the Indian Prime Minister. These events showcase our capability to deliver world-class experiences,” Governor Parkop said.
Security preparations were another key focus during the technical team’s visit. Minister for Internal Security, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, confirmed the government’s commitment.
“You have our full support in terms of security. We have hosted numerous international events in Port Moresby, and we will maintain the same high level of attention to detail for the GCF Board Meeting,” Minister Tsiamalili Jnr stated.
