BY ALFRED PAGEPITU
GIZO
WESTERN Province Premier David Gina says his government views the western border issues as an ‘urgent matter’ and recognises the need to find a ‘practical and lasting’ solution.
Gina on Tuesday said the matter has received strong backing by stakeholders during a workshop last week which brought together chiefs, the Western provincial government and other stakeholders.
He said the ongoing breaches of the territorial sovereignty and territorial integrity of Solomon Islands border by Papua New Guinea nationals is against the intent and spirit of the treaties.
He adds, there is an urgency to bring this to the attention of both governments.
“The status of the various treaties signed and ratified with Papua New Guinea Government and that both governments are now undertaking a comprehensive review of these treaties and agreements.
“The existence of province border committees and their participation in the senior officials meetings in the past but seems not to be effective now,” said Gina.
Gina also mentions that there is a strong desire among leaders in both sides of the border for the establishment of a permanent border post.
