We do not believe that putting the health of our environment first in any way jeopardises our development.
This was the statement made by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama while speaking at the African, Caribbean and Pacific group of countries High Level Breakfast meeting in New York on unlocking the potential of Blue Economy for the sustainable development of Small Island Developing States.
He says that while Pacific nations rightly identify themselves as stewards of the ocean in their own part of the world, they cannot save the waters on their own, nor can the nations of the Caribbean or coastal nations of Africa.
The Prime Minister says a collective global effort is required.
Bainimarama reiterated that the time to act is now and they cannot afford to delay a decisive response to this crisis any longer.
The Prime Minister says that this week is the best chance they have had as a community of nations to develop a consensus on the best way forward and it is also the best chance for the ACP nations to put their best foot forward and be heard.
Bainimarama says that they all have a great story to tell about some of their own efforts to relieve the ever‑growing pressures on our natural environment.
He adds that protecting the environment does not mean sacrificing development and this is where the key phrase is sustainable development.
Bainimarama also stressed that no development on land or at sea in Fiji takes place if there is any risk to the environment.
Bainimarama adds that Fiji very much values its membership of the African, Caribbean and Pacific group of countries especially the support given to Fiji this year as we take on the dual but complimentary responsibilities of co‑Chair of the Ocean Conference and incoming President of COP23.
Bainimarama highlighted that acting in a concerted effort, speaking with one voice is the best way for African, Caribbean and Pacific countries to mobilise the rest of the global community to join us in our determination to roll back the tide.
