What can a tour of Port Moresby's coffee shops and hotels reveal about the state of Australian development and diplomacy in Papua New Guinea? With Gordon Peake, analyst and author of recent article "People-watching in Port Moresby," we unpack Australia's engagement with its closest neighbour. Gordon reflects on the disconnect between official narratives and realities on the ground, the pressures on development workers to demonstrate success, and the value of listening to a range of perspectives to understand PNG's challenges.

We also explore Gordon's insights on the importance of humility when practicing the great game of statecraft, and his advice for newcomers to the Pacific diplomatic scene.

Read Gordon's piece "People-watching in Port Moresby" here: https://insidestory.org.au/people-watching-in-port-moresby/

The Readout is the Development Intelligence Lab's podcast hosted by CEO Bridi Rice. Each episode, you'll meet one development leader, hear their big idea and discover how it can shape the future of Australian development assistance.

Visit Development Intelligence Lab for cracking analysis on Australian development cooperation: https://www.devintelligencelab.com/our-analysis

The Readout is recorded and produced on Ngunnawal and Ngambri lands. Music by Viljami Mehto.

Support and editing by Ruby Saulwick and Walter Colnaghi.

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