Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Michael Somare will not attend this week's Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Vanuatu.
A spokesman from the PM's office told AAP on Monday that Sir Michael would not be going to the meeting for personal reasons.
"It has nothing to do with politics, he needs to be in PNG," the spokesman said.
Sir Michael, who recently survived a leadership challenge, has positioned himself as a key player in negotiating with suspended PIF member Fiji.
Fiji last month held its own meeting in defiance of the PIF ban and attracted regional leaders, including Sir Michael.
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PNG's Planning Minister Paul Tiensten will represent PNG at the meeting scheduled for Port Villa from August 3 to 6.
Solomon Islands PM Derek Sikua and Australian PM Julia Gillard are also unable to attend due to their respective election campaigns.
The ongoing issue for PIF - Fiji's failure to hold elections - is not listed as an agenda item.
