Before Britain and Germany established their colonies in Papua and New Guinea, the two European countries that had interests in the region were Spain and the Netherlands.
Spain was one of the first European powers to explore the area, particularly through the voyages of explorers such as Ferdinand Magellan in the early 16th century. The Spanish claimed parts of the region, particularly the islands in the eastern part of New Guinea and its surrounding areas.
The Netherlands also had interests in the region, primarily through their explorations and claims in the 17th century, which included parts of the western half of New Guinea.
Ultimately, it was Great Britain and Germany that formalized their colonial presence in the late 19th century, leading to the division of the island of New Guinea between the two powers.