WelCom September 2022
The Pacific Islands Forum, held in Suva for regional heads of governments in July, launched a new long-term strategy to address present and future challenges faced by Pacific peoples.
Mena Antonio, Chief Executive of Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand, said Caritas is ‘pleased the Pacific Islands Forum has supported the need for Pacific regional unity, particularly on matters such as climate change, Covid-19, vulnerability to debt and security.
‘The Pacific leaders declared the Pacific is facing a Climate Emergency that threatens the livelihoods, security and wellbeing of its people and ecosystems. We would add our voice to the growing chorus of voices calling for a ban on Deep Sea Mining as well as urgent practical actions to reduce carbon emissions.
‘We also congratulate the Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders on their inaugural meeting. This is an important step forward in the movement towards a fairer balance of views and perspectives.’