latest from yahoo news re kokoda dispute

Thursday March 6, 05:59 PM
Compromise needed over Kokoda Track: PNG
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Michael Somare says the Kokoda Track will gain World Heritage listing, but the extent to which it can coexist with mining has yet to be decided.

Sir Michael was speaking at a news conference with Prime Minister Kevin Rudd after they met for talks in Port Moresby.




The Kokoda Track, which Australia wants added to the World Heritage list, was among topics discussed.

Local landowners oppose the listing, saying it will hurt them economically by preventing proposed mining near the track, where Australians stopped the Japanese advance during World War II.

They are backing Australian company Frontiers Resources' bid for a renewed mining exploration licence at a site that would partly damage the track.

Landowners protested outside Port Moresby airport on Thursday when Mr Rudd flew in for a three-day visit.

Landowner spokesman Willie Vavi said while Mr Rudd did not see their protest, his people wanted to send a clear message that mining should go ahead.

"Kevin Rudd must know there needs to be more than just tourism on the track," he said.

"They'll get no tourism if they don't let the mining go ahead."

Later, Sir Michael said all parties had to be satisfied over the issue.

He said a conclusion would be reached when PNG and Australian ministers meet in Madang in PNG in April.

"Definitely it will be listed in the heritage but there are areas that we have to take into account (for) the interest of our own people," Sir Michael said.

"Now that the interest is growing for listing it as a heritage (site) for the world and PNG, this is something we have to reach an agreement by April," he said.

Sir Michael said a suitable compromise was necessary as there were still many concerns and parties to please.

"Water catchment is a big concern here because it filters into our dam and water supply, the city will be greatly affected," he said.

Mr Rudd said the future of mining on the Kokoda Track was a decision for PNG.

"Characteristic of a new partnership between us I'd be very surprised if we don't come out with a decent outcome that deals with everyone's legitimate interests," Mr Rudd said.