Marape leads PNG Delegation to Burnham Peace Meeting ahead of Ocean Conference in France

Prime Minister James Marape and a team of PNG delegation departed the country this morning to Burnham, New Zealand for a critical meeting with the Autonomous Bougainville Government [ABG], led by President Ishmael Toroama.

This meeting marks a significant milestone in the ongoing post-referendum consultations under the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the processes guided by Section 342 of the National Constitution.

“Burnham holds special significance in the history of Bougainville’s journey to peace.

“It was here, in July 1997, that the Burnham Declaration was signed, a landmark moment that paved the way for the Lincoln Agreement, the Ceasefire, and eventually the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001.

"We return to this place of reflection and reconciliation to honor that legacy and advance our shared future," Marape said.

Since the 2019 Referendum — in which 97.7% of Bougainvilleans voted for independence — both the National Government and the ABG have engaged in sustained consultations, as mandated by Section 342.

The discussions in Burnham will focus on finalizing the process to bring the referendum results before the National Parliament.

“We are now at a critical point in the post-referendum process.

“The Era Kone Covenant, which we signed together, commits both governments to present the referendum outcome to Parliament in 2025. These discussions will help determine how that happens and what constitutional steps must follow — always grounded in mutual respect, dialogue, and the spirit of reconciliation.” Prime Minister Marape said.

Meanwhile, the PNG delegation includes the Minister for Bougainville Affairs and members of the Parliamentary Committee on Bougainville, who will continue engagements while Prime Minister Marape travels to France for the United Nations Ocean Conference.

“Papua New Guinea is a large oceanic state and a proud member of the Pacific Islands Forum. Together, the 15 Pacific Islands Forum countries are custodians of 30% of the world’s oceans.

“PNG will take a leading role at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, advocating for responsible ocean stewardship, climate resilience, and sustainable blue economies,” he said.

The Prime Minister is expected to return later in the week.

During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister, John Rosso will assume responsibilities as Acting Prime Minister.