Second PNG-ABG talks welcomed by Moderator

Bougainville Independent Moderator Sir Jerry Mateparae was pleased with the second phase of consultation between the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government on the path to independence.

Sir Jerry served as the Independent Moderator for the second round of four formal consultations between the PNG government and the ABG, held from 7 to 10 April in Port Moresby.

The moderator from New Zealand said this meeting which concluded yesterday was part of a scheduled series of four consultations taking place between March and June 2025.

“It built upon the outcomes of the first meeting, during which Prime Minister James Marape and President Ishmael Toroama presented their respective visions for Bougainville’s political future,” he reflected on the first meeting.

Sir Jerry said the primary focus of the consultation held in Port Moresby was to identify and agree upon key issues requiring resolution to advance toward a mutually acceptable political settlement.

“Discussions centered around four thematic pillars: Political, Institutional, Economic, and Parliamentary matters,” he said.

“Within these pillars, the parties engaged in constructive dialogue on a range of critical topics, including consultation processes, the nature of the future relationship, transitional timing, institutional preparedness, fiscal arrangements, political economy, constitutional considerations, parliamentary processes and awareness.”

Minister for Bougainville Affairs Manasseh Makiba and ABG Vice President Patrick Nisira reaffirmed their government’s commitment to the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the path of peaceful dialogue.

They acknowledged the importance of sustained engagement and mutual respect in navigating this historic process.

The next consultation is scheduled to take place at Burnham, New Zealand — a location of historical significance, having hosted key negotiations in 1997 that led to the Bougainville Peace Agreement which was signed in 2001.

“I commend both parties for their continued dedication to peaceful dialogue, and I remain honored to support their efforts toward a lasting and meaningful resolution,” Mateparae said.