International Support for Bougainville-Papua New Guinea Peace Dialogue
Port Moresby, September 2025 — A new show of diplomatic support has been extended to both Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, as international leaders praised the two sides for their ongoing dialogue and commitment to peace.
In a recent meeting with Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister and representatives from Bougainville, congratulations were offered for the steady and peaceful implementation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement. The discussions underscored the importance of maintaining trust, dialogue, and cooperation as the two governments continue to navigate Bougainville’s future.
The Bougainville Peace Agreement, signed in 2001, brought an end to a decade-long conflict that claimed thousands of lives. The accord established autonomy for Bougainville and laid the foundation for a future referendum on independence, which took place in 2019. In that vote, over 97 percent of Bougainvilleans expressed support for independence from Papua New Guinea, though the final outcome is subject to a negotiated settlement between both governments.
Observers note that recent talks have been constructive, with both Port Moresby and Bougainville’s leadership prioritizing a peaceful path forward. International partners have consistently encouraged the two sides to honor the spirit of the peace agreement, emphasizing that dialogue rather than confrontation will determine Bougainville’s long-term political status.
The latest high-level engagement reaffirms international recognition of the process as a model of conflict resolution in the Pacific. By avoiding renewed violence and focusing on consensus, Papua New Guinea and Bougainville are seen as charting a hopeful course for stability and development in the region.
As negotiations continue, the emphasis remains on sustaining peace, addressing local development needs, and ensuring that any final settlement reflects the aspirations of the people of Bougainville while preserving stability for Papua New Guinea.
