Pacific Region News

Bougainville factions agree to cooperate

RABAUL, Papua New Guinea–-Opposing factions on the island of Bougainville – the Laitena Council of Elders and secessionist rebels – have reached an understanding to promote peace.

The agreement follows a 10-year secessionist war and a two-year uneasy truce.

Leaders of the two factions said they will work together to establish a legitimate government for the people of Bougainville.

The national government announced recently that it would allow Bougainville to acquire greater autonomy.

$5 million China grant to PNG

PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea–-Foreign Affairs Minister Sir Michael Somare, at the conclusion of a visit to the People’s Republic of China, signed an agreement accepting a cash grant of $5 million.

The grant, for use in supporting the government’s economic stabilization program, is in addition to another $5 million provided by China earlier this year for budget and economic reform support.

While in China, Somare also reaffirmed the government’s “One China Policy,” rejecting the previous government’s temporary recognition of the Republic of China/Taiwan, which China considers a wayward province.

Over 15,000 signatures in support of Noumea bird

NOUMEA, New Caledonia–-A petition demanding that one of New Caledonia’s rare cagou not to be taken from its owner’s home because of its incessant “barking,” has collected 15,189 signatures.

Supporters don’t want the 30-year-old crested pigeon, a New Caledonia symbol, let loose in the capital’s Forest Park, as annoyed neighbors have requested.

Mediators have suggested that a soundproof wall be installed between the two neighboring homes to resolve the problem.

Irian Jaya rejects division of province

JAYAPURA, Indonesia-–A special session of the Irian Jaya Legislative Assembly has rejected a decree by President B. J. Habibie to divide the island of New Guinea province into three provinces.

The move prompted thousands of local people to flock to the assembly building Monday to express their support.

In Jakarata, Habibie said his move was not a hasty decision, but one made to provide more effective local government. Opponents said the plan to break up Irian Jaya is designed to help quell an independence movement.

Vanuatu urges employment of more women

PORT VILA, Vanuatu-– Prime Minister Donald Kalpokas has urged employers to make use of the abilities of more of the country’s young women.

He made the comment while discussing the work of the country’s technical school in the capital, which emphasizes the training of women and the disabled.

Kalpokas said many women now are ready to accept jobs traditionally reserved for men, including carpentry and other work in the building trades.