Prime Minister James Marape and the President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB), Ishmael Toroama, both signed the Melanesian Agreement on Thursday in Port Moresby city, marking yet again another significant step in the peace process and eventual independence that the people of Bougainville seek. The Melanesian Agreement provides a framework for the two governments to finalize consultations and prepare a report for submission to Parliament. Prime Minister Marape described it as a collaborative and conditional document that continues the journey, rather than ends it. Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the National Government’s total adherence to the constitutional process, stating that the Bougainville issue must proceed according to the provisions of the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement, now enshrined in Part XIV of the Constitution. He also acknowledged the 97.7% referendum result as clear and decisive but emphasized that the outcome must still pass through the legal pathway. “The people of Bougainville have expressed their will through the referendum, and we fully respect that. However, our Constitution outlines a clear process—we must conduct consultations and present the outcome to Parliament, which holds final decision-making authority. As Prime Minister, I cannot bypass or override that process.” “This is not an agreement to divide us—it is a roadmap to guide us through the remaining stages, grounded in constitutional integrity and mutual understanding. Our ultimate goal is to reach a destination that respects Bougainville’s aspirations while preserving the legal foundation of our nation.” Prime Minister Marape acknowledged President Toroama’s pivotal role in the peace process—from being a signatory to the original 2001 Peace Agreement to now leading Bougainville through this crucial chapter. “Your leadership at this crucial time is no accident. You bring historical wisdom and strength to a very delicate and important process.” Meanwhile, President Toroama said the signing of the Agreement marks a pivotal moment in the relations between PNG and Bougainville. “The signing of this Melanesian Agreement signals the progress of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the process towards Bougainville’s independence,” President Toroama said. “It gives us the opportunity to open another door to peace by peaceful means.” This signing is significant to the President because he believes that the Bougainville Peace Agreement is the only way to give freedom and liberty to the people of Bougainville within the national constitution framework. The ceremony was witnessed by Moderator Sir Jerry Mateparae, ministers from both governments, members of the bipartisan Parliamentary Committee on Bougainville, senior public servants, and international partners including the United Nations and foreign diplomatic missions.