PNG Prime Minister James Marape has stressed the importance of the upcoming Wafi-Golpu copper-gold mine for the people of PNG.
Marape held a meeting this week with Morobe Provincial Member of Parliament Luther Wenge and State Negotiating Team chairman Dairi Vele to discuss the progress of Wafi-Golpu.
The PNG Government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the project proceeds in a manner that allows maximum benefits for the country.
“I want us to finalise this within the next two to three weeks,” Marape said. “We cannot lose time anymore. The project must move forward in a way that ensures a fair return for the state, landowners, and the people of Morobe.”
Wenge expressed similar sentiments, saying the project needed to progress for the sake of the landowners and people of Morobe.
“The land belongs to the people of PNG,” he said. “We must ensure that they receive their rightful share through fair royalties and equity. We cannot keep delaying while our people wait.”
All parties involved have been urged to resolve any outstanding issues in a timely manner so that the project can move into the development phase.
“The (PNG) Government has directed that the remaining financial and regulatory matters be finalised in the coming weeks,” Marape said.
“Talks with project partners will continue to ensure that all necessary agreements are in place before the second quarter of 2025.”
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