Fiji stands ready to support the newly-appointed Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFs) Baron Waqa in his leadership role.
While welcoming the SG during a special traditional ceremony at the Forum Secretariat last night, PM Rabuka said he is looking forward to working with Waqa.
He highlighted that Waqa will serve the region and the Pacific people well, given his wealth of experience.
“As one who has held multiple leadership roles at the national, regional and global levels, we are assured that you are well equipped to take on this role and that you will lead us well,” he said.
“We believe that you will serve our region and our Pacific people and with the vast experience that you bring, we are confident that our Blue Pacific is in safe hand.”
While highlighting the important role of the PIF, the PM remarked that our region continues to be confronted with multidimensional challenges.
“As our Pacific countries work towards economic recovery and stability, climate change remains our greatest threat impacting our ability to meet our development aspirations,” he added.
“There is an increased urgency for us as a region to act collectively to progress our shared priorities and goals as outlined in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
“We have laid out our pathway through the 2050 Strategy with its implementation plan. It is now in your hands. We hold high expectations because we know that you are more than able.
“I look forward to working with you and I assure you and the Secretariat, of Fiji’s support throughout your tenure as Secretary-General,” he concluded.
