By Pita Ligaiula in Honiara, Solomon Islands
Kiribati President, Taneti Maamau has assumed the chairmanship of the Smaller Island States (SIS), telling fellow leaders their unity and clarity of purpose will shape the tone of this week’s Pacific Islands Forum.
“It is my deep honour to assume the Chair of the Smaller Island States at this important moment in our collective journey, and I thank you all for your confidence and support in this role,” Maamau said at the opening of the SIS Leaders Meeting in Honiara today.
Maamau expressed solidarity with the Marshall Islands after the devastating parliament fire and the passing of former President Christopher Loeak.
“We hold you in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time,” he said.
Maamau reminded leaders that the SIS remain the most vulnerable members of the Forum family, and that their recognition and priorities must continue to be championed.
“Since 1984, our Leaders have insisted that our voices be heard, and our priorities respected. Yet we know that recognition is never automatic. It must continually be renewed, championed, and backed by clear political choices,” he said.
He noted the SIS officials had identified priority actions, stressing the need to work closely with regional agencies to push them forward.
“The onus now is on us to work closely with the CROP to ensure that we are able to advance these priorities in meaningful ways,” Maamau said.
He told leaders their discussions this week would be critical to ensuring SIS visibility in broader Forum talks and in sending a message to development partners and the international community.
“Our discussions today carry weight well beyond this room. They will shape the visibility of the Smaller Island States in the broader Forum deliberations this week, and they will send a signal to our partners and to the international community,” Maamau said.
“If we are bold and united, the SIS will not only endure as a grouping but will lead in showing how vulnerability can be transformed into political strength,” he said.
