By Pita Ligaiula in Honiara, Solomon Islands
Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa says the Smaller Island States (SIS) remain central to the Forum’s work and must continue to have their priorities embedded in the wider regional agenda.
“At the outset, allow me to thank you, Mr Chair, for your welcome remarks, and to congratulate you on assuming the Chairmanship of the Smaller Island States,” Waqa told SIS Leaders at their meeting in Honiara this morning.
“I also join you in conveying our solidarity to the people of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, in light of the recent events. It is a reminder to us all of the fragility of our systems and the resilience required of our people.”
Waqa said the SIS group had “always held a special place within the Forum family” and was a political expression of solidarity among the smallest and most vulnerable members.
He said today’s agenda covered three substantive issues: the review of the SIS group and strategy with four priority areas, Tonga’s expression of interest in SIS membership, and the revitalisation of the SIS Development Fund.
“Each of these items is about more than process. They go to the heart of how the SIS will organise, advocate, and lead in the years ahead. They will determine how we embed our priorities within the 2050 Strategy, and how we mobilise the regional system and our partners to respond in ways that match our circumstances.”
Waqa assured SIS Leaders of the Forum Secretariat’s backing.
“As your Secretary General, I am committed to ensuring that the Secretariat stands firmly behind you in this effort. We will continue to provide the technical support, the policy advice, and the political space for your voices to be elevated, and your decisions acted upon,” he said.
