Statements

September 12, 2023

Pacific Islands Conference on Ocean Science and Ocean Management, Remarks by the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, Dr. Filimon Manoni

Pacific Islands Conference on Ocean Science and Ocean Management 11 September 2023, Nadi, Fiji Remarks by the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, Dr. Filimon Manoni Excellencies, Member Government […]
June 14, 2023

World Ocean Day Keynote Address by The President of Fiji, HE Ratu Wiliame Katonivere

I am honoured to be part of this auspicious event to commemorate World Ocean Day here in Suva. I thank you sincerely for the invitation as I strongly believe that the Ocean is indeed a key part of Fiji, the Blue Pacific Region and its peoples.
March 24, 2023

Statement by Mr. Henry Puna Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General

Excellencies, Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends, Kia Orana and warm Pacific greetings. I am delighted to welcome you to this first session of a talanoa series, related to the important issue of Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions…BBNJ.

As many of you are aware, over two weeks ago, we witnessed history in the finalization of the global agreement on BBNJ. In the words of the President of the Conference of the Parties, Rena Lee, “The ship has finally reached the shore, bringing with it a new chapter on the law of the sea”.

Friends, the journey has not been without its challenges, and I am told the final hurdle included a closing negotiation session, that ran for 36 hours straight, until the final brackets were taken out!
December 16, 2022

Op-Ed: In a sea of climate disappointment, the ocean must take centre stage in all future climate discussions

This year, our Leaders endorsed the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, setting out our collective approach to achieving sustained security, development, and prosperity for all peoples in the Pacific[...]