HONIARA, Solomon Islands (10 Oct 2000) -- If peace talks fail to end a two-year conflict between warring ethnic groups, the Solomon Islands could face social and economic ruin. Australia is hosting the talks in Townsville where 130 Solomon Islanders, including leaders of both militias, have gathered to discuss financial compensation, disarmament and the restructuring of the police force. Violence that erupted in June has toppled the government, shut down dive operations and hotels, and forced foreign companies to close down. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORK | 
