Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister Peter O'Neill is travelling to Jakarta this weekend for discussions with Indonesia's President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.
The timing of the state visit, just days before the Melanesian Spearhead Group leaders summit in New Caledonia, raises questions about PNG's support for the formal West Papuan bid for MSG membership.
Johnny Blades reports.
"While in Jakarta Peter O'Neill is expected to discuss an extradition treaty and human rights issues. Mr O'Neill has voiced concern about abuses in Indonesia's Papua region but has made clear his stance that the western half of New Guinea is part of Indonesia. In recent months, PNG and Indonesia have agreed on joint infrastructure and resource projects along the common border. However the strengthened ties will face a test in Noumea next week when Melanesian leaders including Peter O'Neill are to decide on whether to accept the West Papua National Coalition for Liberation as a full member. Ahead of the summit, the Coalition has received strong support from most members, except PNG. MSG decisions are usually reached by concensus but PNG's weight and the fervent lobbying of Indonesia, which controversially holds observer status at the MSG, loom as potential obstacles for what West Papauns view as a pivotal moment in their quest for self-determination."
