Forum Economic Ministers converge in Fiji for annual meet

The annual Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM) has begun with the Forum Economic Officials Meeting at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, Fiji.

FEMM proper begins Wednesday with ministers; Financing for Development Solutions is the theme of the meeting.

Forum Economic Ministers will consider a range of regional finance options that will support the sustainable development aspirations of the region which are captured in the sustainable Development Goals and the Framework for Pacific Regionalism.

Ministers will look at the current development landscape in the Pacific and assess the viability of a regional finance facility, something they called for following their last meeting in 2015 in the Cook Islands. Policies to address climate change and disaster related finance will also be two important areas of discussion and decision.

“Financing options are critical considerations because they determine how effective development fundamentals like our investment in people, institutions, technology and infrastructure can be,” said PIFS Secretary General Dame Meg Taylor.

Reinforcing the Forum’s commitment to greater inclusivity in regional policy development, for the first time this year the Ministers will engage in a joint dialogue with representatives of regional private sector and civil society organisations.

“We need genuine partnership between governments, private sector, civil society and development partners to build resilient and sustainable economies. These partners have critical and complementary roles to play in achieving better development outcomes for the people of the Pacific. The Forum Secretariat is committed to providing a platform for constructive dialogue to take place and facilitate the coordination of considered policy advise, “said the Secretary General.

 

Photos by PIFS Media