Joint Media Statement on the conclusion of the Joint Government Leaders Consultation
The PNG Prime Prime Minister James Marape and President of Bougainville Ishmael Toroama jointly held the first government consultation on the outcome of the Bougainville Referendum as required by the Bougainville Peace Agreement, and Part XIV of the National Constitution.
The two leaders jointly committed to ensuring that the consultation process is guided by the principles of the Bougainville Peace Agreement, and that both sides find a practical and acceptable solution that is beneficial to both Bougainville and Papua New Guinea.
The two leaders further acknowledged that the results of the Bougainville Referendum was tabled in this first meeting and that the people of Bougainville have voted in favor of independence.
The two leaders jointly agreed to a number of outcomes and have directed the National and Bougainville technical teams to:
- Consult on the definition and process of ratification
- Identify constitutional issues relating to the referendum result and the tabling of the consultation outcomes in the National Parliament
- Develop a joint roadmap on post-referendum consultations
- Fully implement the Sharp Agreement as a matter of priority
The next Joint Government Leaders Consultation has agreed to be held in Enga, Wabag Province prior to the meeting of the Joint Supervisory Body meeting in June 2021.
Hon. James Marape Hon. Ishmael Toroama
Prime Minister President
Government of Papua New Guinea Government of Bougainville
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