BY NED GAGAHE

Leaders and senior officials of Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) member countries touched down in Honiara yesterday as preparations wrapped up for the official opening of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM54) this evening.

Among those who arrived yesterday morning were Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, French Polynesia’s President Moetai Brotherson, Kiribati’s President Taneti Maamau, and Samoa’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade CEO Ms Peseta Noumea Simi, who is representing Samoa.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said the Government and people of Solomon Islands are ready to host a successful Forum, reaffirming the importance of unity among Pacific nations.

“We are only as strong as our smallest member. Iumi Tugeda is a reaffirmation of unity, emphasising the urgency to move from strategy development to implementation,” Mr Manele said.

He added that Solomon Islands, as host and incoming Forum Chair, is committed to achieving tangible outcomes from this year’s meeting.

“The future we want depends on the changes we make today – in our economy, ocean management, commitment to peace, and building a stronger, more united region,” the Prime Minister stressed.

Delegates and representatives from 17 member countries are now in Honiara, with Solomon Islands bringing the total number of attendees to 18.

To mark the start of the week’s program, a church service was held yesterday at St Barnabas Cathedral, attended by Prime Minister Manele, PIF Secretary-General Baron Waqa, Pacific leaders, and senior government officials.