REGIONAL officials and scientists have been told that Pacific countries must strengthen cooperation and rebuild scientific networks if they are to keep pace with growing development and environmental pressures.
Speaking at the opening of the STAR 2025 Conference, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said the Science, Technology and Resources Network continues to play a significant role across the region.
He said the event brought together the people who had “supported this network through its early work, its challenges, and its return to active meetings.”
Formed in 1984 through the South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, STAR was established to align scientific work with Pacific development priorities.
It met regularly for nearly three decades before slowing after 2010, later regaining momentum through renewed regional interest.
“For any professional network to thrive, it must be relevant, dynamic to navigate the global headwinds and build in-depth capacity for sustainability,” he said.
This year’s conference theme, “Connecting the Pacific Islands Through Science and Technology,” focuses on the role of science in planning, environmental understanding and regional cooperation.
Sessions this week include Urban Sea Systems led by the Circum-Pacific Council and a Mineral Security panel hosted by the University of Queensland, the Pacific Community and the United Nations Development Programme.
A field visit from Waiqanake to the Kinoya Outfall will examine coastal infrastructure and maritime conditions around Suva.
The minister said Fiji remains committed to hosting STAR and supporting the forum as it continues to influence scientific advancement and informed decision-making across the region. n Pictures on PAGE 17
