PRIME MINISTER UPDATES PACIFIC LEADERS ON COP23 PREPARATIONS

22/09/2017

The Prime Minister today briefed Pacific leaders on the progressive work undertaken before it assumes the presidency of COP23 - the ongoing UN negotiations on climate change.

At a working breakfast in New York this week, Prime Minister Bainimarama updated leaders on both the pre-COP meeting that is scheduled to take place in October in Nadi this year and the main COP23 event in Bonn, Germany in November this year.

Held on the margins of this year's 72nd session of the UN General Assembly, this morning's meeting saw the PM reminding the leaders on the importance of a colllective commitment in addressing the threats of climate change.

"Governments can’t do this alone. We need everyone to get behind the effort. And I really want my fellow Pacific leaders to be there with me so that it really is a Pacific COP. For us to tell our stories. To talanoa, as we say. And for you to be part of that process."

"I very much see this as a Pacific presidency – an inclusive process in which I ask you all to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Fiji as we give voice to the concerns of our own countries, our own region. So please give me your complete support so that we make COP23 really an event to remember and one that benefits each and everyone of us and the people who look to us for leadership", PM Bainimarama said.