By BIM Corporate Author
Port Moresby, 10 April 2025— The next round of high-level political consultations between the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) is set to take place at Burnham, New Zealand, a location steeped in significance for the Bougainville peace process.
Burnham played host to landmark negotiations in 1997 that paved the way for the Bougainville Peace Agreement (BPA), signed in 2001. Its symbolic role in the peacebuilding journey makes it a fitting venue for the third round of the current consultation series, which aims to determine Bougainville’s political future.
The announcement came as the second round of formal consultations concluded today in Port Moresby. Held from 7 to 10 April, the talks were moderated by Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, GNZM, QSO, KtStJ, who described the dialogue as constructive and forward-looking.
This round is the second in a scheduled series of four consultations occurring between March and June 2025. It built on the outcomes of the first meeting, during which Prime Minister James Marape and ABG President Ishmael Toroama presented their visions for Bougainville’s future.
The Port Moresby meeting focused on identifying and agreeing on key issues necessary for progress toward a political settlement. Discussions were structured around four core pillars: Political, Institutional, Economic, and Parliamentary matters.
Topics covered included transitional timelines, fiscal arrangements, institutional readiness, constitutional considerations, and mechanisms for continued consultation and public awareness. Both parties emphasized the importance of mutual respect and sustained engagement throughout the process.
In the final session, Minister for Bougainville Affairs Hon. Manasseh Makiba and ABG Vice President Hon. Patrick Nisira reaffirmed their governments’ commitment to the BPA and the peaceful path it laid out.
Sir Jerry praised the efforts of both delegations, saying, “I commend both parties for their continued dedication to peaceful dialogue, and I remain honoured to support their efforts toward a lasting and meaningful resolution.”
As the process moves to Burnham, hopes remain high that the spirit of 1997 will inspire renewed progress toward a peaceful and lasting outcome.
Photos Credit: ABG Media Bureau
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