We have succeeded once and we are confident that we will stop this virus again.
This was highlighted by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama while speaking virtually at the Commonwealth Pacific Leaders Regional round table meeting convened with a concerted commitment to advancing strategic partnerships for inclusive and sustainable economies that are resilient in the face of pandemics, climate change and other global challenges.
The meeting was initiated by Prince Charles and Bainimarama has conveyed his appreciation to the Prince of Wales for engaging in this important meeting.
Bainimarama says these past few weeks have not been easy for the Fijian people and they know it will be a long, tough road ahead.
He says we fully contained COVID-19 for a year but this disease has now managed to escape into our communities.
Bainimarama says COVID-19 is not just a health crisis, but one with far-reaching impacts on social and economic development.
He says the setback to the global economy has led to major interruptions leading to widespread unemployment and increased poverty which is evident across the Pacific.
The Prime Minister once again reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to climate actions and adds that Fiji is walking the talk.
He says it is evident we will require medium to long-term concessionary financing targeted to the needs and special circumstances of Pacific States.
Bainimarama says our national adaptation plan maps out a multi-billion-dollar effort to strengthen our climate resilience and we have also committed to plant 30 million trees and sustainably manage our vast ocean space by 2030.
