PM MANELE CONFIDENT ON NEW ROLE AS PIF CHAIR

By Alfred Pagepitu

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has expressed confidence in his role as the new Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).

Speaking to SIBC News after the leaders dialogue with the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP) this morning, Prime Minister Manele said it is an honor to discuss important issues affecting the Solomon Islands during the dialogue.

“It is an honour and a huge responsibility to chair the forum, but I am confident that we will do well, with the support of all our leaders.”

“We just finished the dialogue with the heads of crop agencies, including the Fisheries Forum Agency (FFA), which oversees our fisheries, particularly tuna stocks. This is essential for the Solomon Islands.”

Manele added, “The Noro Canary project is creating over 2,000 jobs. Our tuna exports highlight the importance of fisheries and ocean resources.”

He continued, “We also discussed climate change, with SPREP focusing on this issue.”

Prime Minister Manele highlighted that the Pacific Community (SPC) and other organizations looking after education, such as the University of the South Pacific (USP) also contributed to the dialogue.

“USP made a presentation, and we have students enrolled there. Alongside our national universities, we addressed topics such as fisheries, ocean health, climate change, and sea level rise.”

“These topics were all covered during the CROP discussions. We also touched on air connectivity and tourism, with a presentation from the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO). These sectors are vital not only for the region but also for the Solomon Islands as a nation.”

The Leaders are now holding dialogue with private sectors to be followed by the Civil Society Organizations and Associate Members and Observers dialogues.

Prime Minister Manele highlighted the importance of the private sector.

” “The private sector plays a key role as an engine of growth. Their contributions to economic development are crucial, both regionally and nationally.”

“We have banks, such as BSP, that play a critical role in driving economic development,” he said.

On engagement with Civil Society Organizations, Prime Minister Manele assures that they will continue to engage with civil society on these matters, as it is likely to remain a standing agenda item in future forum leaders’ meetings.

ENDS//