Bougainville development talks underway
The Bougainville Development Cooperation Conference officially commenced yesterday at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, bringing together leaders from the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), the Government of Papua New Guinea, and development partners.
Held under the theme “Enhanced Collaboration Between the Government of Papua New Guinea, Autonomous Bougainville Government and Development Partners for Effective Development Cooperation That Maximizes Impact and Aligns with Bougainville’s Priorities”, the two-day conference provides a platform for open dialogue, priority alignment, and strengthened development coordination.
The opening session featured remarks from ABG Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei and Secretary for the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, Koney Samuel.
In his opening address, Mr. Nanei highlighted the significance of the conference, stressing the need for a unified approach to addressing Bougainville’s distinct development challenges.
“We seek that development partner support could better improved and we seek for better dialogue, stronger partnerships, and strategic development coordination and cooperation as key to achieving this. We urge the Government of Papua New Guinea and development partners to acknowledge Bougainville's distinct development challenges, which differ from the rest of the country,” Mr Nanei said.
Mr. Nanei also extended his appreciation to all development partners for their steadfast support in Bougainville’s peace process, recovery, and development journey.
In addition to the plenary sessions, exhibition booths from Bougainville authorities were set up at the venue, showcasing Bougainville-made products. The Bougainville Agriculture Commodities Regulatory Authority and the Bougainville Arts, Culture and Tourism Authority displayed a range of local products and cultural pieces, promoting the region’s rich natural resources, creative industries, and tourism potential.
The conference will continue today with panel discussions and technical dialogues involving development partners, heads of missions, senior ABG officials, and national government representatives.
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