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Papua New Guinea and the US-China Rivalry: A Balancing Act Guided by “Friends to All, Enemies to None”

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As tensions between the United States (US) and China deepen across the Indo-Pacific, Papua New Guinea (PNG) finds itself navigating an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. For PNG, balancing the competing influences of these superpowers offers both economic opportunities and strategic dilemmas, affecting everything from infrastructure to foreign policy and education. PNG’s response is grounded in a foreign policy principle established in 1975, “Friends to all, enemies to none.” This guiding tenet, designed to safeguard PNG’s independence and sovereignty, is just as relevant today as it was in the Cold War. China’s involvement in PNG’s development has grown rapidly in recent decades, with Beijing’s investments extending to infrastructure, mining, and education. The Belt and Road Initiative has financed projects such as roads, bridges, and telecommunications networks, establishing China as an essential partner in PNG’s economic growth. In extractive industries, projects like th
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Papua New Guinea's Digital Transformation: The Power of Strategic Partnerships

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In the realm of digital transformation, Papua New Guinea (PNG) is making significant strides, thanks to a series of strategic partnerships and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). At the heart of these developments is the University of Technology (UoT), positioning itself as the hub for online learning in the country. The journey began in October 2018 when the UoT and Huawei signed an MoU to establish the Huawei Academy. This partnership was witnessed by the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), marking a significant step towards digital education in PNG. Huawei Marine played a crucial role in building the Kumul Submarine Cable Network, managed by DataCo, which is vital for the digital connectivity of the country. Photo from Post Courier The latest agreement with China to enhance digital transformation in PNG is the icing on the cake. With the support of NICTA, DataCo, Huawei, the Chinese government, and the PNG government, the UoT is set to become th
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Enhancing Maritime Security: Australia-Papua New Guinea Cooperation and Future Imperatives

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Australia actively administers various bilateral and multilateral programs to strengthen relations with PNG. Among these, three pivotal programs— Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP), Pacific Research Program (PRP), and Blue Security Program (BSP)—focus on crucial aspects of maritime security and evidence-based policy making in PNG and the broader Indo-Pacific region. These initiatives collectively underscore Australia’s commitment to collaborative efforts beyond immediate security concerns, aiming for long-term strategic goals. Under the Defence Co-operation Program, the PMSP facilitated PNG's acquisition and operation of four guardian-class patrol boats. Recently, the HMPNGS Gilbert Toropo was delivered and is stationed at Port Moresby’s Basilisk Naval Base, soon to be commissioned for duty at the Lombrum Naval Base in Manu Province. Joining three existing vessels —HMPNGS Ted Diro, HMPNGS Rochus Lokinap, and HMPNGS Francis Agwi—the HMPNGS Gilbert Toropo will reinforce pat
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Pacific Promise: China's Impact in PNG Mining

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Chinese Ambassador to Papua New Guinea (PNG), Zeng Fanhua, highlighted the nickel and cobalt mine as the most significant Chinese investment in the Pacific. This substantial venture has not only bolstered the country's economic growth but has also triggered noticeable transformations in Madang Province. More than mere financial gains, it symbolizes the robust bilateral relations between China and PNG. In January 2019, former National Planning Minister Richard Maru emphasized the responsibility of companies, including Ramu NiCo Management Limited (RNML), in developing infrastructure, healthcare, and education services within the Special Mining Lease (SML) areas. He stressed the imperative for mining companies to contribute more to these communities, aligning with their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to the State and its people. Before Maru's announcement, RNML had implemented a staged Social and Economic Development Plan aimed at bolstering local communities. This
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Decoding Papua New Guinea's Political Jargon: Nek, Sevis, Wantok, and Kin

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Papua New Guinea, a land of diverse cultures and languages, has a unique political landscape shaped by its rich tapestry of traditions. In this vibrant political arena, where language often weaves intricate stories, several terms stand out – Nek, Sevis, Wantok, and Kin. Let's delve into the heart of these words and unravel their political significance. Nek - Navigating the Political Landscape "Nek," derived from the Tok Pisin word for neck, usually refers to the human body part. However, in the realm of Papua New Guinean politics, it takes on a new meaning. Here, "nek" is synonymous with gaining financial benefits or securing jobs to fulfill one's personal interests or needs. It reflects the intricate dance of power and influence, where individuals seek to enhance their positions through strategic alliances and resource allocations. In the context of Papua New Guinea's political landscape, the term "nek" encapsulates the dynamic nature of polit
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Papua New Guinea and China: A Symbiotic Relationship Unveiled

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Papua New Guinea (PNG), a nation nestled in the Pacific Ocean, is gradually emerging as a key player in the complex web of international relations, particularly in its ties with the People's Republic of China (PRC). This blog article takes a deep dive into the multifaceted relationship between these two nations, unraveling the intricacies that have shaped their interactions over the years. PNG in the Indo-Pacific Context To comprehend the dynamics of PNG-China relations, it's essential to place them within the broader Indo-Pacific context. The Indo-Pacific is a vast region with diverse nations, each with its unique geopolitical interests. It's within this complex backdrop that we begin our exploration of the PNG-China relationship. Shifting Perspectives One might assume that PNG, as a relatively small player on the global stage, would view China through the lens of regional security, just as many other nations do. Surprisingly, PNG's perspective takes a different route.
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China's Soft Power Strategy: Balancing Behaviour on the Global Stage

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In this blog article, we'll dive into China's behaviour using the lens of soft power. China's unique approach to altering soft power variables underpins its effort to influence other states' behaviour, and this is primarily driven by its government. The evolution of China's political and economic system, guided by leaders like Deng Xiaoping, has transformed it from a pre-modern imperial state to an isolated communist regime. This hybrid state, merging elements of opposing ideologies, presents an interesting case study of the soft power concept. As Shaun Breslin notes, it has become part of China's official discourse and policy to actively promote positive images and ideas about the nation. China's future trajectory hinges on how effectively it wields this tool. Throughout this blog article, we will explore several key questions. Can soft power effectively analyze China's historical behaviour? Will China's peaceful rise influence the behaviour of othe
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