Governor Lemanu Palepoi Sialegā Mauga is participated virtually in this week’s meeting of the 12th Pacific Islands Conference of Leaders (PICL) in Honolulu.
Hosted by the Pacific Island Development Program (PIDP), along with the East-West Center, the “Pu’uhonua: The Pacific Way Forward” conference was from September 12th-14th.
PICL is composed of 20 regional leaders from independent Pacific Island countries, as well as territories, and the State of Hawai’i.
“This is an opportune time for esteemed leaders to specifically address unique issues faced as a Pacific Region,” stated Governor Lemanu during the conference.
“Although each island nation is individually working through critical concerns of their own, our Pacific Culture brings us as one to collectively be the voice of our people and our future generations. We must come together to discuss these prime issues, and continue to work towards a prosperous future for the whole Pasifika.”
The agenda of the PICL included impacts of climate change, COVID-19 pandemic, industry diversification and geopolitical challenges.
As the leaders are addressing shared concerns, they are also focused on developing common approaches towards regional issues.
This platform also allows for leaders to create and provide dialogue with high level US officials, such as United States Department of Interior Assistant Secretary Honorable Carmen Cantor, INDOPACOM Deputy Commander Lt. General Stephen Sklenka, USCG District 14 Commander Rear Admiral Michael Day, and the United States Deputy Secretary of State Honorable Wendy Sherman.
