12/08 : Special MSG Leaders Summit - Nadi - Fiji

The Special Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders Summit was held in Nadi, Fiji on 22 August 2012.

The Summit was chaired by the Prime Minister of Fiji, Commodore Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama.  MSG Leaders in attendance included the Deputy Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Hon. Vanuaroro Ham Lini; the Minister of Foreign Affairs & External Trade of Solomon Islands, Hon. Clay Forau; the Spokesperson of the Front de Liberation Nationale Kanak Socialiste (FLNKS), Mr Victor Tutugoro; High Commissioner of PNG to Fiji who deputized on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs & Trade, H.E Mr Peter Eafeare; the Chairman of the MSG Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting (FMM) and Minister for Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation of Fiji, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola.. 

The Leaders considered and endorsed recommendations presented by the Chair of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs Meeting (FMM) Ratu Inoke Kubuabola on the Special FMM held on 22 August 2012. 

The Leaders adopted the report and the recommendations of the 2^nd MSG Ministerial Mission which visited New Caledonia from 13-18 August 2012v to evaluate and assess the implementation of the Noumea Accord;

Leaders also endorsed the establishment of the FLNKS Unit within the Secretariat; and agreed to the actions approved by the FMM on Neo-colonialism.  They also welcomed the soft reforms and cost-cutting measures undertaken by the Secretariat.

The Special Leaders Summit also agreed to appoint an Eminent Persons Group (EPG) from member countries and the FLNKS to develop a Melanesia Vision.

Leaders also endorsed the progress report on the preparations for the 25^th anniversary celebrations which included the proposed theme for the 25^th Anniversary Celebration  

 “CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF MELANESIAN SOLIDARITY AND GROWTH" 

which denotes the letters MSG  to signify the solidarity and growth of the Group over the years.

Leaders also agreed that the draft proposed programme of the celebrations will revolve around three main events: 

1. the lauchning of the celebrations ahead of the MSG anniversary date,
2. staging of national celebrations in-country through a “Melanesia Week” to showcase Melanesia and diversity of member countries
3.  the main celebration of the Leaders’ Summit in Kanaky New Caledonia in June 2013.
   

 Leaders at the Special Leaders Summit also approved a proposed logo for the celebrations that reflects on the solidarity of the MSG grouping. They also endorsed in principle the appointment of a High MSG Representative and agreed for the Secretariat to develop relations with other organizations internationally.

The Leaders agreed to meet in New Caledonia on a date and venue yet to be finalised in consultation between the FLNKS and the Secretariat.

MSG Leaders at the Special Summit - Nadi, Fiji - Aug,2012 Credit Photo : Minfo/Pacifikanakynews

 

The Chair thanked all the Leaders for their support and contributions during the Special Leaders’ Summit and also for Fiji’s endeavours towards democratic elections.  Leaders thanked the Government and people of Fiji for hosting the Special Leaders’ Summit and related meetings.  They commended the Chairman for his Chairmanship of the MSG which has heightened interest and awareness of the MSG.  They also expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to all the Leaders and delegates.

by MSG Sec Press Release
Nadi - Fiji Islands

Magalie TINGAL