Joey Manu shared that discussions with Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister were pivotal in his decision to return to the NRL and join the Chiefs in 2028.
Announced as the Chiefs' seventh signing on Monday, Manu emerges as a notable name ahead of their debut season in the NRL in 18 months.
When the two-year contract begins, Manu will be 31 and can play fullback, centre, or five-eighth in the club's inaugural year.
Last month, Manu visited PNG and met with Prime Minister James Marape, finalizing his deal from France on Sunday.
"Talking to the Prime Minister and how passionate he was about making it not just a PNG team, but a Pacific team and trying to get the Pacific nations behind this team, I think it's going to be special," Manu remarked.
"I'm a really proud Cook Island and Māori man, and I know my family's real proud back in Tokoroa in New Zealand and also in the Cook Islands too."
"It's a big decision to make, but bringing that positive impact to PNG but also young Pacific Island kids (is big)."
"There's so much talent in the Pacific Islands, and rugby league is taking over the islands, so it's really cool to have a Pacific team," he added.
Manu will join fellow signings like Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, and Brian To'o as part of the Chiefs roster.
The PNG team can officially enter the player market in November, focusing on potential targets such as Nathan Cleary or Sam Walker.
Canberra's Hudson Young could also be in their sights, as he hasn't yet secured an extension with the Raiders.
"Just joining the Chiefs is pretty special in the first year," Manu expressed.
"With how it can affect the country, that's why I wanted to go there. It's got a lot of positives about how passionate the country is, and what we can do for the country and how we can make a positive impact on people's lives."
After leaving the Sydney Roosters for rugby union in late 2024, Manu first joined Japan's Toyota Verblitz and subsequently moved to Racing 92 in France.
His current contract ends next May, allowing the possibility of signing with an NRL club for the latter part of the season before joining PNG.
"I still keep a close eye on a few games and I get to watch a few games when I can," Manu said.
"You miss certain things when you're watching. I'm just grateful that I get to come back and play."
"I really enjoy playing and I'm excited. Rugby league is a special game for myself, and to come back and play in the NRL is very special."