Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Lenora Qereqeretabua emphasized the significance of Fiji’s participation in the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled for 2024 in Samoa. In an interview, she highlighted the importance of Fiji being actively represented to ensure the nation’s voice is heard on the regional stage.
Ms. Qereqeretabua remarked, “Our presence is vital, especially as we strive to be a leading voice in the Pacific.” She underscored the need for Fiji’s involvement in discussions related to the Ocean of Peace alongside nearly 60 other Commonwealth member countries.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is set to arrive shortly, coinciding with the commencement of the Minister’s Forum, which begins this Thursday. He plans to engage with the Fijian community residing in Samoa at the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
Additionally, women’s issues are poised to take center stage during the discussions. Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland emphasized the necessity of ongoing dialogues surrounding violence against women, highlighting that despite advancements, considerable challenges remain. She noted, “Women are fundamental to the progress of the Commonwealth, yet they still face significant barriers, including violence, income inequality, and exclusion from leadership roles.”