ACTING MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS

M 54

19 MAY 1995

BOUGAINVILLE - ANNOUNCEMENT OF AMNESTY

"The Australian Government welcomes the joint announcement by PNG Prime Minister Chan and Bougainville Transitional Government Premier Miriung on 18 May of agreement on an amnesty for those who have committed crimes during the Bougainville conflict," the Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs, Gordon Bilney, said today.

He noted that specific details will be finalised between the PNG Government and Bougainville Transitional Government over the next 11 days.

Mr Bilney said that the amnesty could be a critical step toward peaceful resolution of the conflict on the basis of reconciliation of all parties.

"It provides opportunity for all Bougainvilleans to step forward without fear of prosecution to join in the discussion of Bougainville's future. It also provides opportunity for the surrender of firearms on the island."

"The Australian Government now urges all parties on Bougainville to embrace the goodwill inherent in the amnesty and join the peace process."

CANBERRA

For further information contact:

Allen Mawer (Minister's Office): (06) 277 7660