REMARKS: Opening Remarks by Chair of 2025 Pacific ACP Trade Officials Meeting, Distaquaine Tu’ihalamaka

Excellencies, 
Distinguished Senior Trade Officials
Representatives of CROP Agencies, the Private Sector and other development partners
Ladies and Gentlemen

1.    Malo le’lei, and warm Pacific greetings to you all. It is truly a privilege to come together for this important gathering, especially when we consider the challenges we face due to the unpredictable and often harsh weather systems that are impacting our Pacific communities. Nevertheless, our commitment to our shared goals has brought us here today, a testament to the strength and determination of our region.

2.    As we begin today’s discussions, I would like to take a moment to express my deep appreciation to the outgoing Chair, whose leadership and vision have steered us through what has been a particularly demanding year. 

3.    The meetings this week are opportunity to pause and reflect on the progress we’ve made in the past year. It’s a moment to take stock of our achievements, as well as to consider the work yet to be done in the coming year. The region has faced numerous obstacles, but the resilience and perseverance demonstrated by our Pacific states continue to inspire. 

4.    Much work is ahead of us. It is now more important than ever that we focus our collective energy on ensuring that the fruits of regional trade and investment are equitably shared among all our Pacific nations. We must work together to bridge gaps, ensure inclusion, and create opportunities that leave no one behind.

5.    Today’s agenda is comprehensive, addressing a range of critical topics that are vital for the region’s growth and development. We will be discussing the Pacific Regional Integration Support Programme, which is crucial for enhancing the region’s economic integration. Additionally, we will need to as a region highlight areas of collective solutions and resources to complement these, in particular in designing the next programming for the region, one that focuses on implementation. 

6.    Furthermore, our ongoing negotiations regarding the Interim-Economic Partnership Agreement will also be a key focus. These discussions are pivotal as they represent a shift from simply formulating policies to ensuring that these policies are implemented in ways that are impactful and meaningful for the people of our region. 

7.    We will also benefit from the perspectives and updates shared by each of your nations, as your unique experiences and insights are invaluable in shaping the path ahead.

8.    I am eager to engage in our discussions today, and I look forward to the collective wisdom and collaboration that will arise from our shared efforts. Our work together will undoubtedly strengthen the ties between our nations and pave the way for a prosperous and sustainable future for the Blue Pacific. 

9.    It is through unity and collaboration that we will continue to rise above the challenges we face and create lasting, positive change for our people.

10.    With these words, I wish you all fruitful and meaningful deliberations. May our discussions today not only inspire new ideas but also help us take concrete steps toward achieving the goals we’ve set for ourselves. 

11.    Malo’aupito.