Lenora Qereqeretabua, Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister of Fiji, emphasized the importance of Fiji’s participation in the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2024 in Samoa. In an interview, she expressed that it is crucial for Fiji to have a voice at the meeting among other Pacific nations, particularly as the country seeks to establish itself as a regional leader.
Qereqeretabua noted that with the theme of the “Ocean of Peace,” representation at CHOGM is vital, especially alongside nearly 60 other Commonwealth members. She mentioned that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is expected to attend the Minister’s Forum starting Thursday, and it is crucial for Fiji to be recognized and heard.
Prime Minister Rabuka is anticipated to arrive soon and is set to engage with the Fijian diaspora in Samoa at the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
Additionally, discussions centered on women’s issues are expected to take a prominent place during the meeting. Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue regarding violence against women. She pointed out that, despite significant advancements, women still face numerous obstacles, including persistent violence, income inequality, structural discrimination, and a lack of leadership opportunities.