PRIME Minister Voreqe Bainimarama was honoured by the 14 countries in the South Pacific for championing the region’s climate change issues on the world stage.
Samoan High Commissioner to Fiji Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia, yesterday, presented a special fish hook plaque to Mr Bainimarama as a token of appreciation for his work during the launch of the Regional Pacific Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Hub’s 2030 Strategy in Suva.
“It is an acknowledgement of your advocacy, you’ve been the champion of climate change on behalf of Fiji, our region and all small island developing states that I have been tasked with presenting to you this plaque on behalf of the 14 member states of the hub’s membership,” he said.
“The fish hook plaque signifies prosperity, fortune and goodwill to you and the Government and people of Fiji.”
Mr Bainimarama said the launch of the Regional Pacific’s NDC Hub’s 2030 Strategy ensured the region put more pressure on developed countries to keep to its goals in the Paris Agreement in reducing carbon emissions.
“The impact of the combined effort of all of us represented here will have a manageable effect on the global picture but we still must do our part for our own good and we still must lead by example,” he said.
“This is a remarkable moment in the Pacific, to see the regional facility, which we have initiated and nurtured over the past three years, and solidify its commitment to serving the region in leading by example for global climate action.”
