Conference A Ray Of Hope: Tong
The Ocean conference is not only timely but also a ray of hope to small island states. Former President of Kiribati and an avid environmentalist Anote Tong made the comment while attending the United Nations Ocean Conference in New York.
The meeting is co-hosted by Fiji and Sweden.
He acknowledged the role Fiji has played in championing the cause on behalf of all small island developing states.
Speaking to the Fiji Sun after attending one of the side events, Mr Tong said such a focus on the ocean was critical.
“Firstly I want to congratulate Fiji in taking the position it has, not only as it made Fiji very visible, it has also made the region very visible and this is something we need desperately, to be seen, to be heard because the issues being discussed here is very critical for us” Mr Tong said. “The current focus on Oceans is so very important,” he said. “There is no other region for whom ocean is more important than the Pacific region. “Most of us in the region depend on the ocean; most of us in the region will perish if our oceans are not preserved.
“The lead role Fiji has played on this issue is particularly welcomed.” Mr Tong also added that he was confident that the call for action and resolutions reached at the Conference will translate into concrete action.