REMARKS: Condolence Statement on the Passing of the former Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Sir Julius Chan
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- REMARKS: Condolence Statement On The Passing of The Former Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Sir Julius Chan

PIF-SUVA, Thursday 30th January 2025--The Pacific Islands Forum conveys its deepest condolences to the Government and people of Papua New Guinea as they mourn the passing of former Prime Minister, Sir Julius Chan.
Revered across PNG as one of the founding fathers of the region’s largest developing nation, Sir Julius served as Papua New Guinea’s second Prime Minister, from 1980-1982, and 1994 -1997. At the time of his passing, he was also Governor of New Ireland, a seat he had held since 2007.
“Sir Julius was an exemplary regional statesperson whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Papua New Guinea and our region. His vision for his nation, and his region, informed his leadership as Forum Chair, and helped shape the Framework for Pacific Regionalism,” said Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa.
“His aspirations of economic sovereignty for his people also extended to all Pacific peoples. Sir Julius was certain that the strength of this region lay in its richest resources—the potential of our people, driven by our rich diversity of cultural identity, united for a Pacific region of security and peace.”
Following from his role as Forum Chair in 1996, Sir Julius continued his close support for collective strength of the Forum family of nations, as Chair of the Eminent Persons Group reviewing the Pacific Islands Forum in April 2004.
“Sir Julius shared expertise, ideas, and views supporting cultural and collective strength. In many ways, he could already see the importance of security and peace for the region in the decades before the security and geopolitical challenges facing our Pacific today.”
SG Waqa, on behalf of the Forum staff and families, extends condolences to Lady Stella, the children, and the extended families.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the many across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific, as we honour the vision, dedication and legacy of this great Pacific statesman.” --ENDS.

