HON. POWES PARKOP CONCLUDES HIS ATTENDANCE AT ASEAN GOVERNORS AND MAYORS FORUM 2025 WITH FOCUS ON PNG’S ASEAN ASPIRATIONS

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 14 August 2025 – Hon. Powes Parkop, Governor of the National Capital District (NCD), Papua New Guinea, concluded his engagement at the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF) 2025 today by participating in the Meeting of ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum.

The meeting brought together local leaders from across ASEAN to review progress, exchange strategic insights, and advance a common agenda for inclusive, sustainable urban development in the region.

Representing Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea as a whole, Governor Parkop reiterated PNG’s commitment to regional collaboration and emphasized that strong city-to-city partnerships are vital stepping stones toward the country’s bid for ASEAN membership.

“Our engagement in forums like the AGMF is not only about exchanging ideas— it is about demonstrating that Papua New Guinea is ready and able to contribute meaningfully to the ASEAN community. Inclusive urban development, sustainable growth, and mutual cooperation are shared priorities that unite us, and we stand ready to work alongside our ASEAN neighbours, “ said Governor Parkop.

Governor Parkop’s participation at the AGMF forms part of his broader strategy to position Port Moresby as a bridge between Southeast Asia and the Pacific. His attendance also aligns with Papua New Guinea’s milestone 50th Independence Anniversary, underscoring the nation’s aspiration to take a more active role in regional and global affairs