AS we address employment challenges in the Pacific, we must also embrace our role in shaping global solutions.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted this at the inaugural Pacific Regional Tripartite Conference at the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa by IHG, Wailoaloa in Nadi in Nadi on Monday.
“The Pacific has consistently punched above its weight on the world stage,” he said.
“In employment cooperation, we can lead by example: fostering regional labour mobility that benefits all, advancing just transition policies that protect workers through economic change, and promoting sustainable development that creates jobs while safeguarding our environment.”
Mr Rabuka emphasised that youth unemployment in one Pacific nation affects us all.
“Families face challenges together, share opportunities fairly, protect their most vulnerable, invest in their children’s futures, and resolve disputes through dialogue, not division. This is how we must approach employment cooperation.
“Employment challenges are no different. Youth unemployment in one nation affects us all. Skill shortages are another call for shared solutions.
“Climate change threatens traditional livelihoods across our region—we must adapt together.
“The Talanoa Forum embodies these Pacific family values in employment policy, affirming that our prosperity is interconnected, our security shared, and our futures united.”