The outgoing Chairman of the Melanesian Spearhead Group and Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Honourable Jotham Napat,
Honourable James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea,
Honourable Jeremiah Manele, Prime Minister of Solomon Islands
Mr. Rock Wamytan, Distinguished Representative of the FLNKS
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Ni sa bula vinaka and good morning to you all,
It is indeed an honour and a privilege to be able to host the 23rd Melanesian Spearhead Group Leaders’ Summit and to be given this special responsibility to lead our Melanesian bloc.
I thank Prime Minister Napat and the Government of the Republic of Vanuatu for their able leadership of our sub-regional group since 2022 and the achievements reached during their tenure as Chair. I especially acknowledge their leadership despite challenges faced; the most recent being the 7.3 magnitude earthquake late last year.
I am encouraged that in the face of such adversity; the true Melanesian spirit of resilience and perseverance was demonstrated as our sub-region came together to assist and show support. We continue to stand by the people and government of Vanuatu in their recovery.
As Fiji takes on the mantle of leadership, we build on the hard work and success that has been laid before us. It is not a responsibility we take lightly, especially as we are confronted with an increasingly fragmented global landscape that demands more of us.
These circumstances only reaffirm the need for us to remain united, to stand together in solidarity and in our shared hope for a peaceful and prosperous Melanesia.
I look forward to working closely with all MSG Leaders towards advancing Melanesia as the region of opportunity.
Vinaka vakalevu, tankio tru, tankio tumas and oleti.