New York – Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele who is also Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), welcomed Pacific Leaders to a special reception at The Sanctuary, Roosevelt Island, New York, on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Manele highlighted the shared journey of the Forum over the past 54 years and the importance of unity under the theme: Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent.
“Our presence here in New York provides us the opportunity to be united with one voice and be heard by the international community.
“Whether we are raising climate ambition, defending our oceans, or championing gender equality and youth leadership, our strength comes from speaking as one family,” the Prime Minister said.
He reaffirmed the Pacific’s commitment to global engagement, noting that initiatives like the Pacific Roadmap for Economic Development and regional commitments in peace and security, education, health, labour mobility, gender equality, social inclusion, and digital connectivity reflect the collective priorities of the Pacific peoples.
“The Pacific is not a stage for others, it is a region that leads with clarity, courage, and conviction,” Prime Minister Manele added.
– OPMC
