Fiji’s Minister for Women, Lynda Tabuya has applauded the collaborative efforts that led to the establishment of the Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders meeting as an annual stand-alone event within the Pacific Islands Forum of Leaders.
“Coming together on this occasion holds indeed great significance.
Our collective leadership for gender equality and our shared commitment to accountability are vital in bringing to life the vision of an equal, equitable, inclusive, and sustainable Blue Pacific, aligned with the aspirations of the Blue Pacific 2050 Strategy,” Tabua said Thursday in her remarks at the 2023 PIF Women Leaders meeting.
Last year marked a significant milestone for Fiji as we chaired the inaugural Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting, and I want to acknowledge the dedication of my predecessor, Rosy Akbar, during that historic occasion, she said.
“I also express my gratitude to Secretary General Henry Puna and his team for their support throughout our tenure and in the continued convening of the Pacific Islands Women Leaders annual Meeting.
“As we build upon the foundation set during our inaugural meeting, I eagerly anticipate joining forces with all of you to seize the opportunities presented by this gathering. I am looking forward to a conversation and discussion that embodies openness, our shared Pacific values as islanders, constructive dialogue, and a resolute commitment with a focus on accountability and tangible outcomes in order to collectively champion the rights and aspirations of Pacific women and girls in all their diversity,” she said.
Passing the leadership torch to the esteemed chair for this meeting, Vainetulai Rose Toki-Brown, “I offer my heartfelt congratulations. You can count on the full support of the Fiji delegation as you navigate and guide our discussions in the next two days.
Together, let’s strive for a brighter, equitable, and inclusive future for all in the Blue Pacific”, said Tabuya.
On Thursday, an intergenerational dialogue was held between Forum member delegations and youth ambassadors representing their sub-regions.
The dialogue echoes the commitment of the Forum towards ensuring full and effective participation of youth in spaces of decision making.
The meeting ends Friday.
SOURCE: PACNEWS
