Media release

Gender, the environment and media are key issues in the Pacific, Forum hears

Delegates at the Pacific Parliamentary and Political Leaders Forum in Wellington this week have heard how gender equality and free media are key issues facing Pacific nations.

“We’ve heard from delegates from across the Pacific that better coordination on issues is required; both at a national and regional level.”

“For example, Samoan Minister of Justice Hon Fiame Naomi Mataafa discussed how achieving gender equality is essential to the achievement of successful social, economic, and political development in countries.

“It is these sorts of issues that the forum is designed to debate, and I look forward to more rewarding sessions with the delegates in the next two days,” says Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade committee chair John Hayes

“Following both sessions we had particularly captivating debates amongst guests and New Zealand MPs on these issues,” Mr Hayes says.

“At the same time, environmental issues are at the front of mind for many Pacific nations. Delegates today have debated how to reduce the need for imported energy and place a higher reliance on sustainable energy production.

Lord Feleti Sevele, Former Prime Minister of Tonga, also spoke on the importance of Parliament to local communities.

“This event has been a fantastic opportunity for Pacific politicians to debate the issues that really matter for them,” says Mr Hayes.

“It is a pleasure to have been able to organise this unique event.”

ENDS

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