Pacific: A Region of Resilience, Innovation and Unity – His Excellency the President
The President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has officially opened the 5th Pacific Islands Parliaments Group (PIPG) Conference today, welcoming parliamentary leaders from across the Pacific, including seven Speakers of Parliaments and Heads of Legislatures.
His Excellency the President highlighted that the theme ,“Pacific Islands in a Changing Global Landscape: from Challenges to Parliamentary Action”, could not be more timely as we live in an era of profound global transformation.
“The Pacific has always been a region of resilience, innovation and unity. Our shared history, culture and values bind us together. It is through our communities and collective strength that we can navigate the uncertainties of the global landscape.”
“The world around us is shifting rapidly, with trade disruptions and economic uncertainties. Further, the existential threat of climate change is reshaping the way we live, work and interact.”
His Excellency the President emphasised that as small island states, we are uniquely vulnerable to the forces of globalisation.
“For our community of Pacific Island nations, these changes, and the challenges they bring, are more than just news headlines for us. These challenges have become part of our everyday lives. They touch our scattered islands, villages, families, our livelihoods and the future we are building together as a community of island nations.”
“Our small economies are heavily reliant on trade, tourism and natural resources. This makes us susceptible to external shocks. Yet, amidst these challenges, there is great opportunity.”
His Excellency the President reaffirmed that the Pacific is not just a collection of small island states – it is a region of resilient nations; rich in culture, resources and spirit.
“Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities, vulnerabilities into strengths and aspirations into actions.”
Establishment of Pacific Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (PIPA)
His Excellency the President stated that the establishment of the Pacific Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (PIPA) represents a historic step forward for our region.
“It is a recognition that our collective voice is stronger than our individual ones. By formalising this assembly, as legislators, you will strengthen regional governance and ensure that the principles of democracy, inclusivity and accountability are embedded in our shared future.”
“This bold initiative will strengthen and institutionalise a regional inter-parliamentary community. I note with pleasure that this will also strengthen our Pacific voices in the global inter-parliamentary dialogues and assemblies.”
“The decisions you make here will shape the future of our parliaments and the future of our people.”
“As Pacific peoples, we bring to the world a unique perspective – one rooted in communal values, respect for nature, and the wisdom of our elders. These values must inform our parliamentary action and our engagement with the global community.”
His Excellency the President reminded the leaders to seize this moment to reaffirm our commitment to regional solidarity, to strengthen our collective resilience and to ensure that the Pacific voice is heard loud and clear on the global stage.
-Ends-
