Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama after three years as chair of the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) has handed over the baton to the Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare. He can do so satisfied he has not only done the job well. He has also established a firm foundation for the continuing growth and work of this important forum.

At the handing over ceremony, Mr Bainimarama thanked the Pacific Islands leaders for electing him to act on their behalf. He said he did his utmost to ensure that the forum delivered the best possible support for the sustainable and inclusive development of Pacific Island nations.

We must thank Mr Bainimarama not only for his chairmanship but also for his foresight in the formation of the PIDF.

Over the past three years, PIDF had reaffirmed and consolidated its purpose through its actions. It had convened leaders and citizens in open and inclusive dialogues that were aimed at solving problems.

Mr Bainimarama rightfully remarked: “I’m not sure how many international forums can make that claim.”

Now the Pacific islands nations have an effective and consistent voice of their own, and it is the PIDF.

Leaders have made real progress on building the forum, on institutionalising it, with complete professional secretariat support, and deepening partnerships with their founding development partners and technical partners. Now the forum has its own Charter.

We congratulate Prime Minister Sogovare for taking over the chairmanship. Mr Sogavare has been consistently supportive of Fiji.

Fiji has assured its full support for him.

Mr Bainimarama said: “We are confident that under the new leadership of the Prime Minister Sogavere, the PIDF will extend its influence, strengthen its voice, and raise its international prestige—all because it is an institution that acts intelligently.”

The PIDF is very close to our hearts especially when the forum hears the voices of the Pacific people and leaders take action.

It is truly a Pacific forum and is being recognised internationally.

Meanwhile we welcome and congratulate the newest member of PIDF, Timor Leste.

Timor Leste participated in all PIDF summits in the past three years. The Former Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao was the keynote speaker in the inaugural meeting in 2013 and Timor Leste has been one of the leading donors to PIDF to date.

It is fitting that it is now playing a full role. It is also fitting that Mr Sogavare succeeds Mr Bainimarama.

Maika Bolatiki

Feedback:  maikab@fijisun.com.fj