The premier of Makira province in Solomon Islands says it plans to become an independent state.
The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation reports that the intention was announced by Steven Piringisau at an anti-logging rally in Kirakira.
Mr Piringisau said the province was in a transitional stage to become independent and his government has been working on this ever since it came into office.
He says it has produced draft laws to that end.
The Makira Premier has also assured anti-logging protestors that their concerns are being heard by the provincial government.
