PAPUA New Guinea has pledged PGK25 million (about AUD7.95 million) to support Tuvalu’s land reclamation efforts over the next five years as the island nation faces rising sea levels and climate change.

PNG Prime Minister James Marape announced the commitment of PGK5 million (about AUD$1.59 million) annually, starting this year, during a joint press conference with Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo.

The announcement followed Marape’s arrival as the first visiting leader for the Leaders’ Segment of the Fiji-hosted Pre-COP31 meetings.

Marape said the commitment reflected the spirit of Pacific solidarity, citing the biblical teaching in Matthew 7:12: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.”

The funding will support Tuvalu’s efforts to create and strengthen land as the country confronts the impacts of rising sea levels.

Teo expressed his appreciation to the Government and people of Papua New Guinea for their commitment and their support for Tuvalu.

The pledge highlights regional cooperation as Pacific nations seek practical measures to address climate change and protect vulnerable communities.