RELEASE: Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Pays Tribute to Former SG, Sir Noel Levi

The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Baron Divavesi Waqa, has conveyed his 
sincere condolences on the passing of former Forum Secretary General Sir Noel Levi.

In paying tribute to his predecessor, Secretary General Waqa acknowledged Sir Noel Levi’s 
significant contribution to strengthening Pacific regional cooperation and advancing the 
economic and political interests of Forum Island Countries.

“Sir Noel Levi was a principled leader who strongly believed in the power of regional 
cooperation. He championed greater economic integration among Pacific Island Countries, 
including through initiatives such as the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement and PACER 
Plus, recognising regional trade as an important pathway toward improved livelihoods, 
stability, and shared prosperity for Pacific peoples,” Secretary General Waqa said.

He also noted Sir Noel’s steadfast commitment to Pacific regionalism and his advocacy for 
Forum members to speak with a unified voice on matters of regional and international 
importance.

During his tenure from 1998 to 2004, Sir Noel Levi played a key role in shaping regional 
responses to emerging political and security challenges. Secretary General Waqa highlighted 
his instrumental contribution in mobilising Forum support for the Regional Assistance Mission 
to Solomon Islands in 2003, a landmark Pacific-led initiative that supported the restoration of 
peace, stability, and governance in the Solomon Islands.

“Sir Noel Levi’s leadership reflected a deep commitment to the collective interests of the 
Pacific and to the enduring values of cooperation that underpin our Forum family,” Secretary 
General Waqa said.

"The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat extends its deepest sympathies to the family, 
Government, and people of Papua New Guinea. We join them in honouring the life and service 
of a respected regional leader whose legacy will continue to inspire the work of Pacific 
regionalism. May his soul rest in peace."

Sir Noel Levi passed away last Wednesday in his home province of New Ireland, Papua New 
Guinea. He served as Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum from February 1998 to 
May 2004. //ENDS