The World Bank has appointed Han Fraeters as Regional Director for Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Announced in late September 2025, the appointment reflects the Bank’s intent to deepen engagement with Pacific Island governments.
“I look forward to working closely with partners, from the public and the private sector, and with communities.” – Han Fraeters.
Fraeters, an economist with extensive experience in infrastructure and governance reform, will oversee a portfolio that includes transport, energy, and digital development programs. Based in Port Moresby, he will coordinate World Bank operations with bilateral donors and local institutions to align financing with national priorities.
“I am honoured to assume this role at such a critical time in the Pacific,” he said. “Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu face urgent challenges. But their extraordinary human, natural and cultural wealth also provides enormous opportunities. I look forward to working closely with partners, from the public and the private sector, and with communities, to identify and implement ambitious and sustainable solutions for those challenges that will benefit the people of Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Job creation will be central to the approach.”
The Bank’s current pipeline in Papua New Guinea includes road rehabilitation, renewable energy, and urban resilience projects. Fraeters said his priority would be to accelerate implementation and expand partnerships with the private sector.
For Papua New Guinea, the move is significant: it marks the first time a senior World Bank executive will be resident in the country, enabling faster decision-making and greater policy dialogue.
The government welcomed the appointment, saying it would improve responsiveness and align projects with local realities. Development observers view the decision as recognition of PNG’s growing influence in Pacific development strategy. Fraeters’ leadership is expected to strengthen institutional capacity and advance sustainable, climate-resilient growth in the region.
