BY JOY OFASIA
In his inaugural address as the new Chair of the Smaller Island States (SIS) Leaders Meeting, President Taneti Maamau of Kiribati advocated for unity and strong political action to amplify the voices of the region’s most vulnerable nations.
Speaking this morning at the Forum Fisheries Agency conference room in Honiara, President Maamau acknowledged the trust placed in him by fellow leaders.
“It is my deep honour to assume the Chair of the Smaller Island States at this important moment in our collective journey,” he said. “I thank you all for your confidence and support in this role.”
Opening his remarks on a solemn note, President Maamau expressed condolences to the people of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, following the recent fire at their Parliament and the passing of former President Christopher Loeak.
“We hold you in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time,” he said to President David Kabua and the Marshall Islands delegation.
Marking the official start of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Week, Maamau highlighted the importance of SIS solidarity in setting the tone for the week’s high-level discussions, including the upcoming Leaders’ Retreat and the consideration of the High-Level Political Talanoa Report and the Leaders’ Policy on Partnerships.
“The unity and clarity of purpose that we show here will set the tone for the rest of our deliberations in Honiara,” he said.
President Maamau reminded leaders that the SIS have always had to fight for recognition, dating back to 1984, when the group was formally acknowledged within the Forum architecture.
“We know that recognition is never automatic. It must continually be renewed, championed, and backed by clear political choices,” he noted.
Referring to the four priority actions already identified under FSM’s past leadership — including transport, fisheries, procurement and health workforce systems, and climate finance — Maamau said the task ahead is to translate these priorities into results.
“The onus now is on us to work closely with the CROP agencies to ensure that we are able to advance these priorities in meaningful ways,”he said.
He reminded delegates that the impact of their discussions would extend far beyond the meeting room.
“Our discussions today carry weight well beyond this room,”Maamau said.“If we are bold and united, the SIS will not only endure as a grouping, but will lead in showing how vulnerability can be transformed into political strength,” President Maamau said.
