PACIFIC Islands Forum leaders concluded the 50th PIF Leaders Meeting in consensus but with qualifications. This was revealed by the chair of the meeting and Tuvaluan Prime Minister Enele Sopoaga.
The qualifications meant that not all forum leaders agreed with the recommendations put forward by the smaller island states (SIS).
The SIS had endorsed the Tuvalu Declaration for the Survival of Pacific Smaller Island Development States (PSIDS) after their meeting on Tuesday.
The declaration had reiterated the UN SG’s call for an immediate global ban on the construction of new coal fired power plants and coal mines and to rapidly phase out their use of coal in the power sector.
Mr Sopoaga said he was happy that they had the endorsement of the forum leaders although there were qualifications. “You have seen the work of the leaders for the forum here in Tuvalu.
We’ve agreed on the communiqué and also a statement on climate change,” he said.
“In the communiqué, the leaders endorsed the statements and decisions by SIS leaders which include the Tuvalu Declaration for the Survival of Pacific Small Island Developing States.
“I’m happy we got the endorsement with qualification, but the content of the SIS leaders and the presentation by the two ladies remain in place.”
However, he feels they should have done more for the people of Tuvalu.
“I think we can say we should have done more work for our people and I think it is a matter for our people to reflect more on. I seek for respect and understanding of the Pacific people on the outcome.”
Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the declaration by SIS leaders was a “general statement” and was not binding on the rest of the forum member countries.
