Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General, Baron Divavesi Waqa has reaffirmed the region’s commitment to integrity and accountability at the 6th Teieniwa Vision Anniversary Celebration Wednesday.
Speaking under the theme “Teieniwa Vision at Six: Integrity, Leadership, and Resilience in the Blue Pacific,” Waqa said the milestone marks progress in the region’s journey toward good governance.
“It is an honour to join you today to mark the 6th anniversary of the Teieniwa Vision — a significant milestone in our region’s ongoing journey towards good governance, transparency, and accountability. At the heart of this vision is the symbol of the ‘sailing canoe,’ which represents our Pacific identity and the region’s unified efforts to combat corruption.”
He said governments, institutions and communities across the Blue Pacific have advanced implementation of the Vision despite geopolitical shifts, climate change and the impacts of COVID-19.
“Across our Blue Pacific Continent, governments, institutions, and communities, have advanced the implementation of the Vision, strengthening integrity systems despite the added complexities of geopolitical shifts, climate change, and the impacts of COVID 19. This important work reinforces public trust and the credibility of our regional institutions.”
Waqa said the anniversary is a moment to renew commitment to ethical leadership and preventing corruption.
“As we commemorate this occasion, we reaffirm our shared commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethical leadership and fostering a culture where corruption cannot take root. This work is central to achieving our broader regional aspirations under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, recognising that integrity and accountability underpin sustainable development, climate resilience, human rights, and social inclusion.”
He said the Pacific Islands Forum will continue supporting member states.
“The Pacific Islands Forum remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting member states through strengthened coordination, sustained capacity building, and robust monitoring and reporting. You can be assured that this support will continue with consistency and resolve.”
Quoting the Vision, Waqa added: “we ‘commit to Pacific Unity Against Corruption, recognising that all of our progress and aspirations for a peaceful, harmonious and prosperous Pacific cannot be realised unless we address corruption’”.
“Guided by this collective pledge, the Teieniwa Vision stands not simply as a declaration, but as an enduring covenant – carrying us with confidence toward a Pacific future defined by integrity, unity, and enduring hope, said SG Waqa.
