PM says while we emerge from the grip of COVID-19, our world and our region remain in a state of turmoil

The most important consideration this week is how the Pacific Islands Forum chooses to navigate the challenges and opportunities as we voyage into the future.

This was the message from Fijian Prime Minister and Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ meeting, Voreqe Bainimarama while speaking at the Leaders Dialogue with Associate Members and Forum Observers.

Bainimarama says while we emerge from the grip of COVID-19, our world and our region remain in a state of turmoil.

He further says at home many of us continue to deal with the long standing socio-economic challenges that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.

He adds our of revenue sources have been hit hard and our communities and health systems have been heavily impacted.

Bainimarama also says climate change is hurting our people’s security and livelihood, is damaging our economy and in many instances it is threatening our sovereignty.

Bainimarama also says he wants to acknowledge the brothers and sisters from Micronesia and acknowledge the breakdown in connection in the past years

The PM says his hope is that through their dialogue mechanism and resolution that they are working towards, that they continue to find value and indeed belonging within the forum family.