People queue to vote in Bougainville’s independence referendum from Papua New Guinea in Buka, the capital of the autonomous region, pictured on 23 November 2019. Photo: BenarNews / Stefan Armbruster
Former New Zealand Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae is in Port Moresby this week to meet with the Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, James Marape and the Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama.
It is the beginning of his role as the moderator on discussions over Bougainville's political future.
Sir Jerry Mateparae in 2014. Photo: AFP
Sir Jerry, who once commanded the international troops keeping the peace in Bougainville before the Peace Agreement (BPA) was signed, has been brought to facilitate dialogue.
This comes after the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) push to have its independence referendum tabled in the national parliament faltered.
The meetings with Marape and Toroama, and other officials, will allow Sir Jerry to gain insight into the perspectives of both governments, and define his role in moderating the ongoing negotiations.
The agenda for these meetings will focus on the next steps for the full implementation of the BPA, ensuring that the process remains aligned with the aspirations of Bougainville and its people.
The ABG anticipates that these discussions will pave the way for further progress and a mutually successful conclusion to the Bougainville peace process.
Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama, left, and PNG Prime Minister James Marape confirm the appointment of New Zealand Governor General, Sir Jerry Mateparae. 10 September 2024 Photo: Autonomous Bougainville Government
