PIF leaders’ meeting provides opportunity to work together for a sustainable future for our people - Bainimarama

The Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ meeting provides an opportunity to work together, discuss issues and develop solutions to overcome common development challenges for a sustainable future for our people.

This has been highlighted by the Prime Minister and the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ meeting while opening the Pacific Group of the African Caribbean Pacific Leaders’ Meeting.

The Prime Minister says as geopolitical and partner interest in our region grows, we must be stern and steadfast in calling for a genuine partnership for regional development corporation on our Pacific terms and in support of our regional institutions.

He also says they will consider the implementation arrangement to the new partnership agreement between the organisations of the African, Caribbean and the Pacific States and the European Union, expected to be named the Samoa Agreement.

The Prime Minister adds while celebrating 50 years of Pacific regionalism, they are also setting the course for the future of Pacific regionalism through the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

He says the 2050 Strategy sets the vision and direction of the Blue Pacific region and provides a framework for all developing partners, including the European Union to align their regional corporation.

The Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Henry Puna says the developing and security challenges faced from COVID-19 to climate change and ocean pollution highlights the critical importance of regional and multi-national corporation to secure our collective future.

He adds the leaders will collectively consider the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent which is a blueprint for driving a collective interest and priorities.