Priority now is climate change, says P.M.

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 05 September 2016, 12:00AM

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi is making climate change a top priority to discuss at the Pacific Forum Leaders meeting that will be held in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia this month. 

He will attend the Forum Leaders' Meetings which include the Smaller Islands States (SIS) Leaders Meeting, on 7 September; the Pacific African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Leaders Meeting, and the official opening of the 47th Pacific Islands Forum, on 8 September; the 47th Pacific Islands Forum plenary session, on 9 September; the forum leaders' retreat, on 10 September; and the 28th post-forum dialogue partners plenary session, on 11 September.

He will then travel to New York for the 71st United Nations General Assembly where he will deliver a speech. 

Tuilaepa told the media on Thursday that climate change would be the most crucial issue for the Forum. 

He said it is now time to set up a global action plan to avoid the dangers of climate change by limiting global warming well below two Degree Celsius. 

“Remember, a decision has been reached by the United Nations and now it’s time to action it,” said Tuilaepa.  

“Climate change is the most crucial topic today and it affects our coral reefs. If a tsunami or cyclone hits, it will damage our coral reefs and fish which is our food supply.”   

The Pacific Forum focuses on issues that impact on the Pacific Islands relating to environment, climate change, fisheries and exclusive economic zone. 

Communication and information technology matters will also be discussed. 

The meeting will be attended by leaders from the Pacific including New Zealand and Australia. 

The Prime Minister will be assisted by Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Peseta Noumea Simi and Assistant C.E.O. Tasha Siaosi. 

 

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 05 September 2016, 12:00AM
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