Australia commits $12M for SPREP programs [1]
Thursday, June 7, 2018 - 14:07
The Australian Government has signed an AU$12 million-dollar agreement with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) last week, to provide continuous support to sustainable development programs in the Pacific region.
The agreement comes into effect in July 2018 and follows on from Australia’s previous AU$18.25 million multiyear grant arrangement with SPREP in 2013.
It ensures the protection of island and ocean ecosystems, encourages sustainable development, assists in climate change adaptation and improves the management of solid waste.
Ms Sara Moriarty, Australia’s High Commissioner to Samoa, praised SPREP for helping to protect the Pacific’s environment and natural resources for future generations.
“Australia is proud to support the vital work of SPREP and we look forward to continuing our long and successful partnership,” she said.
Mr Kosi Latu, SPREP Director General, was thankful to the Australian Government for their continued support.
“Australia has maintained a strong partnership with SPREP and in return its Pacific Island Members, ensuring that SPREP is able to continue to support and provide key services to the region. SPREP applauds and thanks the Australian Government for its commitment in the environment and livelihoods of the Pacific people,” he said.
SPREP is celebrating 25 years of service to the Pacific Island region, after signing an agreement to establish the Pacific intergovernmental regional environment organization in June, 1993.
The organization provides national-level technical advice, programme support, capacity building and coordinated regional responses to global issues and international agreements concerning the environment.