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Bougainville and Papua New Guinea resolve outstanding issues at JSB

The Autonomous Bougainville Government and National Government successfully completed the Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) meeting in Port Moresby on 14th and 15th of December.

Both governments left the meeting satisfied after the resolutions were approved by the PNG Prime Minister Peter O’Neil and ABG President Dr. John Momis as co-chairs of the meeting.

The resolutions passed covered a number of important Bougainville issues including:

  • Joint government endorsement to have an internationally recognized person as Chair of the Bougainville Referendum Commission
  • Joint government endorsement on the question (s) to be put forward. The JSB also acknowledged Bougainville’s aspirations to have a simple yes or no question, and therefore directed the Joint Technical Team to progress this work within the agreed principles of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and also endorsement on the Weapons Disposal plan going forward
  • Joint government endorsement of the Second Autonomy Arrangements review

One of the outstanding issues which have caused significant tension between the two governments over the years is the issue of the Restoration and Development Grant.

The JSB acknowledged this and have agreed on a way forward that will see the National Government paying a total of K437 million to the ABG. This comprises of K302 million for ongoing national government projects in Bougainville, K100 million for the completion of the Buka Ring Road and K35 million for projects procured under the Special Intervention Fund.

A commitment was also made to commence the initial design of the West Coast Road as early as 2018 and the costing will be factored into the 2019 budget. A commitment to procure an additional boat to service the Atolls was also agreed to by both governments.

President Momis in his closing remarks expressed his gratitude to the national government for the level of commitment demonstrated in their engagement and fruitful discussions during the two day meeting.

“It is important that both governments find a mutually acceptable solution to the issues presented and discussed in this meeting. This is the avenue provided for in the Bougainville Peace Agreement that holds a process of integrity in solving the important Bougainville issues.”

“I am happy with both governments for reaching some very good decisions which were not thought possible in recent times.  Both governments have shown that we are committed to fully implement the peace agreement.”

“The important task now is to continue raising awareness not only in Bougainville but also in Papua New Guinea because it is a joint issue and all of us must understand that we must work hard to find a mutually acceptable outcome,” said Momis. 

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