MSG SENIOR OFFICIALS MEET - SPECIAL OUTCOMES STATEMENT BY PS MATAIKABARA

I thank you for this opportunity
 

The MSG Senior Officials Meeting concluded successfully today. The meeting was very interactive as we were able to make substantive progress on a number of issues pertinent to the MSG countries.
 

The meeting deliberated on the future role of the Secretariat and its members with a particular focus on decolonization where the case of the FLNKS –Kanaks of New Caledonia was discussed. There was also discussions on the future cooperation directions of the MSG through strengthened inter –membership trade.
 

With regards to the joint efforts by the MSG on decolonization, the meeting recognized the important aspect of this initiative undertaken through the UN Decolonization Committee. The MSG supports the transparent initiative undertaken thus far and welcomes the report of the recently concluded High Level Ministerial Mission to New Caledonia. Members believe that unison amongst members is crucial to help achieve the goals and aspirations of the Kanak people.
 

The discussions also focused on a renewed interest for a review on the vision and plan of the organization. Members stressed the importance of a vision and plan that clearly articulates a desired future common goal, which should embody the ideals of the MSG, inherent in its agreed principles of cooperation.
 

There were also discussions on next year’s preparations for the 25th Anniversary celebrations of the MSG’s existence. This celebration is anticipated to coincide with the 19th MSG Leaders Summit in New Caledonia in 2013.
 

There was also consideration for the appointment of an MSG High Representative to be able to perform the Secretariat’s international responsibilities and be able to promote MSG interests with international and regional partners.
 

Overall, the MSG Senior Officials Meeting concluded in a pleasant yet successful manner reminiscent of the true Melanesian spirit expressed through the unwavering support by distinguished delegates from member countries.
 

The abovementioned outcomes have been formulated emanating from the discussions by the Senior Officials and will submitted as recommendations to the Foreign Ministers for their consideration tomorrow before it is finally submited to the MSG Leaders during the Leaders Summit for their final endorsement.
 

Thank you very much and Vinakavakalevu