PIFS

New look Forum could become like old SPC

RNZ reports the Forum was established in 1971, creating a separate organisation that shut out the old colonial powers which dominated the SPC, which later became the Pacific Community.

But earlier this month at the Forum's summit in Pohnpei two new members were added, French Polynesia and New Caledonia.

Their inclusion effectively means France is now part of the Forum.

Dr Malakai Koloamatangi said there could well now be interest in joining from many of the other major powers that have growing interests in the Pacific.

Smaller Island States Welcome the Federated States of Micronesia

As the meeting got underway, Prime Minister of Cook Islands and Chair of the Smaller Island States (SIS), the Honourable Henry Puna said “In the true Pacific Way, we wholeheartedly agreed to support and welcome FSM into the SIS family.”

President of the Federated States of Micronesia, H.E Peter Christian was then led into the Chamber by the Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Dame Meg Taylor.

Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat accredited as an Observer to the Green Climate Fund

The announcement further improves opportunities for cooperation between the Pacific region and the GCF. Late last year Fiji’s Urban Water Supply and Wastewater Management Project was one of the first eight from around the world to be approved for funding, and earlier this week Cook Islands became the first Pacific country and Small Island Developing State to receive a readiness support grant from the GCF.

Dame Meg Taylor appointed to Every Woman Every Child High Level Advisory Group

The Group will provide leadership and inspire action for women’s, children’s and adolescent’s health as the world begins working towards implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.