Bougainville might have a regional security mission to support next year's referendum on independence.
The administration in the Papua New Guinea autonomous region is considering a scoping exercise on bringing in security from overseas.
Bougainville president John Momis, left, and former PNG Prime Minister Peter O'Neill sign the agreement on the question for the independence referendum. Photo: Joseph Nobetau
Meanwhile the Autonomous Bouganiville Government's Chief Secretary, Joseph Nobetau, says his staff have made significant progress preparing for next year's referendum, including the question to be put, the voting criteria, general awareness and the setting up of the Bougainville Referendum Commission.
He says more work is needed to address peace and stability, such as weapons disposal and reconciliation, along with dialogue with national and international partners.
Mr Nobetau says the ABG must also stay engaged with the National Government on the outstanding constitutionally guaranteed grants and other aspects of the Bougainville Peace Agreement.
He says without the funding the delivery of key priorities won't happen.