Kim Harrington, the Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Energy and Natural Resources, is currently visiting Papua New Guinea. This marks her first trip to the nation as the top official for energy and natural resources within the U.S. Department of State. The visit is part of efforts to reinforce the United States' commitment to bolster its ties with Papua New Guinea (PNG) concerning energy and critical minerals.
During her stay, Harrington has engaged with various stakeholders, including the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy, the PNG government, and American firms like Newmont and ExxonMobil. She has also met with the American Chamber of Commerce to discuss ways to enhance the legal framework for mining in PNG and to encourage investments from U.S. companies in this sector.
"The United States views Papua New Guinea as an important partner in global supply chain security for energy and defense minerals," stated Harrington. "We want PNG to be as globally competitive as possible and attract private sector investment from responsible mining companies."
Ann Marie Yastishock, the U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, emphasized the mutual benefits of increased cooperation in the mining industry. "By investing in PNG’s mining sector, we are not only contributing to America’s energy security and economic prosperity but also supporting PNG’s economic goals," she said. "This partnership is a testament to how foreign investment can create a safer, stronger, and more prosperous future for both our nations."
The visit underscores the strategic importance of PNG in the global supply chain and aims to foster deeper collaboration in sectors critical to both countries' interests.