President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote has called for more efficient and reliable trade in the region.

President Konrote said this would allow an uninterrupted flow of resources, tourism and investment.

He also encouraged countries to maintain their engagements with the private sector.

He shared these sentiments with  250 member delegates of the 25th Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum, who attended the farewell dinner at the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa, Natadola, last night.

He also commended the delegates from each country for their collaborative efforts in pursuit of timely and engaging agenda.

“I am happy to learn that you have had fruitful discussions and moved the ball forward in addressing a number of issues affecting our region – in line with this forum’s objective to forge parliamentary partnerships for peace and security.”

He further added that regional peace and stability was only assured when everyone co-operated on issues of common interest and appreciated the unique strengths of our regional partners.

“The Asia-Pacific represents a vast multitude of cultures and dimensions, and that gives us an enormous advantage in developing solutions to regional issues as they arise,” he said.

“We achieve peace and stability when our member countries bring their own knowledge and experiences to the table and achieve consensus on policies that provide an enduring framework for our peaceful co-existence.

“Over the last 25 years, this forum has helped make the Asia-Pacific one of the most consequential and successful regions in the world.

“We have achieved a great many things, and many greater accomplishments are on our horizon.”

In addition, President Konrote expressed the nation’s gratefulness to have been given the opportunity to host such a prestigious gathering.

He also congratulated the Speaker of the Parliament, Dr Jiko Luveni, for her leadership at the forum.

Edited by Maraia Vula

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