“Your role as Secretaries is fundamental. You are the principal adviser to the Head of Government, Manager and Administrator.
“You are at the engine room of governments in facilitating processes, providing handrails where coordination and cooperative work is undertaken across the government system under law.”
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka made these remarks while welcoming the Pacific Heads of Prime Minister’s Departments during an official dinner at Suva’s Grand Pacific Hotel Wednesday night.
The gathering, hosted by Fiji, brings together senior officials who serve as secretaries or permanent secretaries across Pacific Island countries to strengthen regional coordination and leadership, support implementation of regional priorities, build capacity and mentorship, and promote unity and good governance, among other important things.
In his official address, Prime Minister Rabuka highlighted that the senior officials also coordinate the government’s policy formulation and deliveries, and development partner support through established mechanisms.
“You ensure that policies in all sectors are aligned, mutually supportive and address real issues that affect the peoples’ quality of lives. You serve Prime Ministers and Presidents as head of government and as a person. You look after their security and welfare,” he told the participants.
At the outset, Prime Minister Rabuka reminded the participants of the evolving role of leadership and governance in the region, highlighting that public expectation for accountability, transparency, and responsiveness are now greater than ever.
“The lessons we have learned are not just for us; they are meant to be shared.”
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to a rule-based international order and multilateral cooperation, noting that the Pacific’s identity as an Ocean of Peace reflects both its collective values and its growing global influence.
“Through the Ocean of Peace Declaration, we demonstrate our determination to live by the values of peace, respect, and the Pacific Way. While we might be small, our faith and determination remain our greatest strength,” he said.
He added that as the region transitions “from cooperation to integration,” Pacific nations must remain guided by dialogue, faith, and trust, the enduring tenets of Pacific regionalism.
Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Rabuka encouraged delegates to engage in robust discussions and to produce tangible outcomes for the region.
“We have come to this point in our history because of our discernment of our reality and the future that awaits us. Your role is key in shaping that future,” he said.
The senior officials will be meeting today behind closed doors to advance discussions which support their respective roles at the highest level.
Their collaboration is critical in ensuring that Pacific governments remain united, resilient, and focused on delivering real improvements to people’s lives.
