We are facing a climate and ocean crisis - Bainimarama

The third Climate Action Pacific Partnership Conference has concluded with the joint consensus from leaders that the deadly impacts of our changing climate have intensified into a full‑blown crisis.

While closing the conference last night after two days of deliberation amongst Pacific leaders, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainiamarama has stressed that we are facing a climate crisis and an ocean crisis.

Bainimarama also highlighted that it is the defining crisis of our time adding that if we do not take action, this crisis will soon escalate into chaos that will consume the entire world.

President of Palau Thomas Remengesau Jr, speaking on behalf of the of Pacific Small Island Developing States leaders present at the meeting, pointed out that the Pacific way for most has been one of patience, respect and consensus.

President Remengesau adds that sometimes, maybe this is an obstacle to getting things done faster‑ the urgency is not there because we are respectful, the urgency is not there because we are so patient and the urgency is not there because we seek consensus in just about everything.

He also stressed that the impact of climate change is already upon us‑ the Pacific is in crisis.

Meanwhile the Cook Islands will host the fourth Climate Action Pacific Partnership (CAPP IV) Conference in Rarotonga next year.

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