Before departing he held press conference at the lobby of departures of the Jackson's International Airport where he told reporters that the State Negotiating Team accompanying him would also meet with representatives of the Wafi-Golpu Project to progress the project.

 

He also announced that in his absence, State Enterprises Minister William Duma will be acting Prime Minister and upon his return, he will complete the formalities to appoint Lands Minister John Rosso as the new Deputy Prime Minister, replacing the late Sam Basil.

 

Duma, Rosso and Public Service Minister Joe Sungi were in attendance at the airport to see off Marape and his entourage.