A custom leaders group in the Shortland Islands of Solomon Islands wants to have a say in joint border talks between the Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands governments.
The Famoa leaders group met in Honiara at the weekend and expressed concern that it had been excluded from talks to be held in Port Moresby.
In a statement, a Famoa Working Committee says the people, chiefs and community leaders at the border must be included in any talks if a lasting peace is to be achieved.
There have long been concerns in the Shortlands at the ease with which people from neighbouring Bougainville can cross into Solomon Islands territory.
