Bougainville Development Cooperation Conference concludes with strong commitments and new strategic direction
The inaugural Bougainville Development Cooperation Conference has successfully concluded in Port Moresby today, setting a renewed foundation for stronger, better-coordinated partnerships between the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), the Government of Papua New Guinea, and development partners.
Over two days of frank and constructive dialogue, the conference brought together senior government leaders, international diplomatic missions, bilateral and multilateral partners, to align priorities and discuss a re-defined path for Bougainville’s sustainable development.
Delivering the keynote closing address on behalf of the ABG President, Minister for Treasury and Finance Hon. Geraldine Paul expressed appreciation for the depth of engagement shown throughout the Conference.
“For Bougainville, this conference is not only a platform to reflect on the support given over the past three decades but, more importantly, it is a turning point for redefining how we coordinate and align development assistance moving forward,” Minister Paul said.
She emphasized that the discussions had acknowledged Bougainville’s unique history and the post-conflict priorities that set it apart from the rest of Papua New Guinea.
“Together, we have recognized the pressing need for targeted, high-impact investments that will lay the foundation for economic resilience and fiscal self-reliance,” she added.
“I am pleased to note that we have reached mutual understanding to finalize the development of the Bougainville Development Cooperation Strategic Policy, with the formal establishment of an inter-government working group to lead this effort.”
National Minister for Planning and Monitoring Sir Ano Pala commended the ABG’s leadership and reaffirmed the National Government’s commitment to supporting Bougainville’s aspirations.
“This conference has laid an important foundation. There is now a greater shared understanding of ABG’s strategic priorities and challenges,” Minister Pala said.
“The principles of strong coordination and inclusive partnerships are vital in advancing our shared vision of peace, prosperity, and self-reliance for Bougainville.”
Bougainville Regional MP Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr. described the conference as timely and crucial, particularly given Bougainville’s political and economic future.
“The relationship we form here must go beyond political discussions. It’s about ensuring our development partners are not hesitant but fully engaged in supporting Bougainville on the ground,” Tsiamalili said.
He also called for the inclusion of an environment and climate sector within Bougainville’s development framework and emphasized leveraging constitutional funds owed to Bougainville through innovative financial models to accelerate key infrastructure projects in the region.
The conference drew the participation of heads of diplomatic missions, the United Nations, European Union, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, the Asian Development Bank, and the World Bank.
In closing, Minister Geraldine Paul reaffirmed the ABG’s call for a shift from fragmented, low-return projects to well-planned, transformative initiatives.
“We call on our national counterparts and our development partners to maintain this momentum and continue this redefined support to Bougainville’s long-term aspirations, with a strategic focus on infrastructure, economic development, and capacity building,” she said.
The outcomes of the conference will now inform the formalization of the Bougainville Development Cooperation Strategic Policy and the establishment of a Partnerships for Development Framework, marking a significant step in Bougainville’s journey toward sustainable, inclusive development.
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