DPM Biman Calls for a Visa-Free Pacific
“The future of the Blue Pacific depends on integration. Full integration remains that in the speediest possible time, we must have a free-visa travel arrangement between all members of the PIF family,” Mr Prasad said.
Friday 11 August 2023 | 16:55
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad and Pacific Islands Forum secretary general Henry Puna during the Pacific Economic Ministers meeting in Suva on August 10, 2023. Photo: Leon Lord
A visa-free Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) region cannot be a medium-term goal, it must be a short-term goal and it must be urgently addressed.
This was the challenge made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad as he reiterated the call for a visa-free Pacific during the 2023 Forum Economic Ministers meeting in Suva on Wednesday.
He said Pacific businesses must be able to shape and expand opportunities unrestrained.
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“The future of the Blue Pacific depends on integration. Full integration remains that in the speediest possible time, we must have a free-visa travel arrangement between all members of the PIF family,” Mr Prasad said.
“I know Australia’s initiative to introduce Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), which will allow 3000 Pacific islanders every year to settle in Australia with their families is a very welcomed move,” he said.
“The PEV is some way superior to the temporary visa schemes. In my view, this is a significant move, but I know it is now stuck in the Australian Senate.”
He said deeper integration among Pacific island countries was the surest way of expanding opportunities for young people.
“This is the surest way of responding to the continuous loss of skills and talents in the region.”
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