The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Oceania Regional Director Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago was officially welcomed on Friday by the Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Sakiusa Tubuna.
In his address Tubuna said, Fiji’s partnership with IUCN transcends a mere alliance; it symbolises an unyielding commitment to safeguarding the nation’s rich environment.
The collaboration, he said, provides Fiji with a global reservoir of expertise and resources, enabling informed and impactful decisions concerning environmental matters.
“With Fiji boasting the 26th largest ocean state globally, covering 1.3 million square kilometers, and hosting pristine flora and fauna, the Fiji Government stresses the urgency of protecting this invaluable resource.”
“Despite facing the harsh realities of climate change, including rising sea levels and increased cyclone frequency, Fiji remains proactive in fortifying its environment, people, and economy,” Tubuna said.
“An essential foundation for sustainable, resilient, and inclusive development lies in adopting an integrated approach to economic growth, social development, and environmental protection.”
He added Fiji recognises the vital assistance provided by IUCN in implementing national plans, policies, laws, and strategies to advance the goals of sustainable development.
“Fiji’s commitment is evident through various initiatives, such as embracing nature-based solutions, issuing the first sovereign blue bond, supporting sustainable development-focused MSMEs, and constructing a bio-fertilizer factory to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers.”
“The Fiji Government calls upon partners like IUCN and other organizations to catalyze a concerted push towards implementing environmental and climate commitments across the Pacific and expresses gratitude to IUCN, the European Union, and the governments of France, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand for their support through the Kiwa Initiative.”
“The support includes nature-based seawalls for coastal communities and the Promoting Pacific Islands Nature Based Solutions (PPIN) project to strengthen nature-based solution efforts.”
He added that looking ahead, Fiji seeks collaboration with IUCN to recalibrate its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and become a leader in innovative nature-based solutions for climate adaptation.
“The Fiji government also aims to enhance the sustainable commercialisation of marine protected areas through local communities.”
