Doha, Qatar: Minister for Administrative Services of Papua New Guinea, Hon. Richard Masere (pictured) has underscored the strategic importance of the eleventh session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (COSP11), describing it as a vital global platform for advancing collective efforts to combat corruption.
Speaking to The Peninsula at COSP11, currently being hosted by Qatar, Masere, who is also the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Constitutional Matters, emphasised that the conference carries significance not only for individual countries, but for the international community as a whole.
He praised Qatar’s role as host, noting that the country is widely recognised among the world’s top performers in anti-corruption efforts, making it an ideal venue for meaningful dialogue and exchange of best practices.
“The fact that this conference is being held in Qatar is very important,” Masere said, pointing out that Qatar’s strong standing in global anti-corruption rankings offers an opportunity for other nations to learn from proven models. “For a country like Papua New Guinea, it is critical that we look to some of the best examples in the world and model ourselves accordingly.”
Masere highlighted that participation in COSP11 elevates the importance of anti-corruption reform within Papua New Guinea, reinforcing the need to align national systems with international standards. He stressed that corruption is not an issue that can be effectively addressed in isolation, but rather requires global cooperation, partnership, and shared responsibility.
“The journey we are taking is not about individual countries acting alone,” he explained. “It is about working together globally, in cooperation and partnership, to address corruption, especially as development brings new and complex challenges.” He said exposure to international experiences and discussions at COSP11 provides valuable insights into how countries can address corruption while pursuing sustainable development.
Masere said: “By listening, observing, and learning from the global community here in Doha, we are encouraged to take those lessons back home and apply them in ways that suit our national context.” Masere explained that Papua New Guinea’s statement at COSP11 focuses on pushing the country toward global anti-corruption standards and strengthening cooperation with the United Nations to achieve those goals. He acknowledged that while challenges remain, identifying institutional weaknesses and addressing them through strong international support networks is essential.
“Our message is about recognising where we need to improve and strengthening those areas through global partnerships,” he said. “This is how we make real progress.” The minister said he is scheduled to deliver Papua New Guinea’s country statement during the conference, outlining the government’s commitment to working closely with the United Nations and regional partners to fight corruption, particularly in the Pacific Island region.
