PAPUA New Guinea has introduced a major policy shift in its foreign diplomacy, Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Paul Tiensten said yesterday,
“The Foreign Affairs and Trade Department will undergo a major policy shift aimed at giving more focus on trade and economic diplomacy as opposed to the traditional role of political diplomacy.”
Mr Tiensten said the major shift was part of his drive to recognise the department’s foreign service missions.
He said the move would eventually see a change in the composition of staffing in the foreign missions and enable the department to redirect its focus on trade and economic diplomacy.
Mr Tiensten presented a cabinet submission on this important policy change, which was approved by cabinet on Jan 16.
He said the shift in the department’s focus was necessary in view of increased globalisation.
“This will mean that strategic overseas missions will be beefed up by not only officers from Foreign Affairs and Trade but technical officers from line departments and government agencies to drive and promote strategic interest of the country in trade, investment and economic growth.”
He said another aim of the shift was promoting the development of institutional knowledge and skills through staff undertaking post graduate studies while abroad.
“Many nations, including countries in the region, have realised the impact of globalisation, where trade and movement of investments have taken the centre stages of their foreign policy.”