We all know that the hardest conversations to have sometimes are with those closest to us. But, I humbly ask that when we leave each other’s company at the end of this week, we take with us the unified spirit – the mana – of this time together; and draw on that in our future interactions.The above message was conveyed by the Pacific Islands Forum Chair (PIF) and Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama at the farewell dinner hosted yesterday for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders. Prime Minister Bainimarama said the launching of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific reflected our deep appreciation for the past, while signaling a bold challenge and new promise for our future. “The Strategy emphasizes that the Blue Pacific is about the Pacific peoples, their future, shared values, and talents. It is about people who know their needs and potential; who plan and own their development agenda; and act collectively for the good of all.“This commitment is not a new one. It is the basis upon which the Pacific Islands Forum was formed; it was the core of the aspirations of the very first meeting of Forum Leaders half a century ago – and it is the nexus between what is now and what can be.” “Friends, in our current context, the urgency for our region to act in unison cannot be overstated. To make genuine progress in our lifetimes and beyond – on health; climate change; disaster risk; gender equality; social inclusion; regional security; ocean governance; and economic and trade development – a united Pacific, is an undefeatable Pacific. “This is our moment for action and of transformation,” Prime Minister Bainimarama said. Reflecting on his role as the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, Prime Minister Bainimarama said, “I was honoured to stand with you, our Pacific Leaders, and vow to the children of our region that we will do all we can to mould a future that they deserve.
