Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says he is still atoning for his sins after orchestrating two coups in 1987 that continues to have a ripple effect on our country– which is why he is actively championing the region as an ‘Ocean of Peace’.
Speaking at the International Monetary High-Level Meeting, Rabuka acknowledged that there are questions about why a coup-maker like him – a Rambo figure, is now carrying a banner for peace.
He said this is because he intends to atone for what he did.
“My past cannot be removed, but I can compensate to some extent for my actions. While, I am actively championing the birth of the ocean of peace… it can only go forward through the endorsement of the Pacific Islands Forum.”
“I am quite confident that political leaders will ultimately back the initiative,” he said.
The Prime Minister called on Australia and New Zealand to fall in line as members of the Pacific Islands Forum, and work as close partners, calling for the same.
Rabuka said that there is a sense of insecurity throughout the world and a yearning of peace is what’s needed.
He said it is crucial to understand that peace does not mean that Pacific Island States will relinquish their sovereignty and normal security and legal arrangements.
“As foundational rules for the peace mission, the island countries would avoid actions that might jeopardise order and stability and commit to a mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
“I see a region free of militarisation, with a careful definition of what means. It would, however, be consistent with the UN Charter, multilateralism and the principles of collective action.”
“Prosperity is what we seek, but it must go hand-in-hand with peace. It is not possible to attain national progress and fulfilment amid the depredations of war, and the simmering possibility of it,” he said.
Rabuka added that it’s the people of the world who can make this happen – the very word peace is filled with power and meaning that inspires and lifts.
