RELEASE: In-country Consultation reaffirms Kiribati commitment to regionalism

20 May 2025

Tarawa, Kiribati- Secretary General, Baron Divavesi Waqa, and team capped off a successful high-level, in-country consultation with the Kiribati Government on Friday, 16 May 2025. 

On his first visit as Secretary General, Mr. Waqa and team met with Beretitenti H.E. Taneti Maamau, who warmly welcomed Secretary General Waqa and the Secretariat team to the Micronesian country - noting the importance of being ‘on the ground’ as key to understanding the extent of the country’s realities.

On his part, SG Waqa acknowledged Kiribati’s continued leadership and reengagement at the regional level, especially amidst the current geopolitical environment.

Additionally, the PIFS team met with Vice-President and Minister for Finance and Economic Development, Teuea Toatu; a team from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development, as well as visited the new PIF sub-regional office and residence in Bairiki, Tarawa.

“This [sub-regional office] is a key testament to the Government of Kiribati’s commitment to work closely with the Forum, ensuring we are on the ground, listening, understanding the realities and challenges faced, and finding solutions together.”

The PIF team also conducted a workshop with representatives from government ministries to present on the work the Secretariat is doing in different sectors, and welcomed more collaboration when working towards regional goals.

Workshop participants included representatives from the Ministry of Women, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development.

[ENDS]