Joint Statement by the PNG Prime Minister James Marape and Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama on the appointment of a Moderator
We are pleased to announce that after thorough consideration and consultation that we have asked Sir Jerry Mateparae to take up the independent moderator role to support our two governments in resolving outstanding issues on Bougainville’s future.
The decision to appoint a moderator was made at our last Joint Supervisory Body meeting in May 2024. Sir Jerry was selected from a well credentialed list of potential candidates.
Sir Jerry is highly regarded having previously served as Government General of New Zealand and as New Zealand’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. He has had a long and distinguished military career including serving as New Zealand’s Chief of Defence Force.
Sir Jerry has extensive experience in peace monitoring in conflict and post-conflict environments including in East Timor. Notably, Sir Jerry served as Commander of the Peace Monitoring Group in Bougainville so has a first hand understanding of Papua New Guinea and Bougainville.
We consider Sir Jerry to be extremely credible, is from the Pacific Region and commands the respect of both our governments.
During our discussion, we agreed that the scope of the moderator should be broadened and be as flexible as required.
We have conveyed our request directly to Sir Jerry. There is an administrative process to follow but we look forward to working closely with Sir Jerry and the UN in supporting our two governments in navigating a mutually successful conclusion to the Bougainville peace process.
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