By Eleanor Gee

A two-day consultation in Tonga, looking at key trends and uncertainties that may drive change in the Pacific region’s future such as climate change, CoViD-19, and technology, was opened by Prime Minister Hon Dr Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa today, 13 August, at the Fa'onelua Convention Centre in Nuku'alofa.

The consultation will contribute to developing the Pacific region’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, led by the Pacific Islands Forum Members. The strategy aims to ensure Pacific people will lead free, healthy and productive lives.

Hon. Dr Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa said in his keynote address that our isolated region is not spared the impacts of climate change, pandemics or cyber terrorism - these are real issues and these are the trends of our time.

“As a leader, I personally feel that political will is not enough. Every commitment rendered at every level, is key to the achievement of this vision.”

He said the consultation is “an opportunity for our voice, our country, our region, and the future of our children and their children in years to come to ensure we do our part to safeguard our region, preserve our freedom and secure what we hold dear the most, our peace and prosperity in the Pacific”.

Government, civil society organizations, private sector businesses, community leaders, and academia are taking part in the consultation.

A country report will be formed along with feedback from participants and submitted to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.