Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says his views until now on the place of Australia and New Zealand at the Pacific Islands Forum are well known but they are in a new era in which both countries are attempting to re‑engage in a more respectful and inclusive way and he warmly welcomes that.
Bainimarama has previously said he would not attend until Australia and New Zealand left the Pacific Islands Forum because they have too much influence.
This is the first time in a decade Bainimarama is attending a Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
Speaking at the Sautalaga Event of 50th Pacific Islands Forum in Tuvalu, Bainimarama appealed to Australia to do everything possible to achieve a rapid transition from coal to energy sources that do not contribute to climate change.
He has asked Australia to please do more.
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