Tonga to host Pacific Islands Forum leaders this week, more

Tonga will host the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting for a week from August 26 to 30, chaired by Prime Minister Huakavameliku, with a focus on moving beyond policy deliberations to action – transformation through building better now. The theme of the meeting is “Transformative, Resilient Pacific Islands: Building Better Now” (PIF).Lakai Title on the Pacific: Langa to Tuutai) reflects the government’s desire to be the captain of the PIF wake.

The official plan so far, since the official emission Back in April, Tonga launched a series of events designed to allow leaders to discuss challenges, collaborate on solutions and advance the shared goals of the Blue Pacific continent. Resilience was at the heart of the discussions facilitated by Tonga as host country, in line with the seven thematic areas of the Pacific Islands Strategy 2050.

The meeting will begin on Saturday, August 24, with the arrival of leaders and forum members, followed by the Royal Agriculture and Fisheries Annual Exhibition and a diaspora dinner. Chief Secretary and Cabinet Secretary Paula Ma’u told Radio and Television Tonga last week that all forum leaders will stay Tanoa International Dateline HotelOn Sunday, August 25, the leaders will attend a church service and enjoy afternoon tea.

The official session will begin on Monday, August 26, with a formal opening ceremony at the new Tonga High School Indoor Sports Hall. The day will include meetings of PACP and Small Island States (SIS) leaders, as well as sub-regional discussions. The first day will conclude with a reception and dinner at the new Tonga High School rugby field.

On Tuesday, August 27, there will be a dialogue with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, civil society organizations and the private sector, followed by discussions with the Council of Regional Organizations of the Pacific (CROP) Principals and Observers. On Wednesday, August 28, there will be a plenary session, national statements and further dialogue with development partners.

On Thursday, August 29, the leaders will travel to Vava’u for a one-day retreat, which will include a boat trip and closing ceremony on Friday, August 30. As Forum Chair, Prime Minister Huakavameliku is expected to announce the outcome of the Vava’u retreat to all stakeholders, followed by a press conference. The leaders will depart Tonga on Saturday, August 31, after a prayer breakfast.

Currently, the government is last minute Preparation, especially housing and conference Centerto serve the week-long event, with more than a thousand guests expected to arrive in Tonga.

Secretary Ma’u said the 150 container homes installed at four locations in Nuku’alofa will accommodate 300 guests, while the rest will be distributed among private hotels and families.