Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad expressed to the visiting president of the World Bank Group, Ajay Banga, that the health, livelihoods, and security of Pacific Islanders are negatively affected by the actions of larger nations.
Prof Prasad emphasized that the purpose of the World Bank is to rectify these issues rather than worsen them. He conveyed feelings of exclusion and indifference experienced by Pacific nations from international financial institutions.
During a recent meeting of Pacific leaders in Tonga, the need for actionable steps instead of mere rhetoric was clearly highlighted. He expressed hope that Mr. Banga would work towards addressing the exclusion and indifference faced by smaller states within the decision-making processes of the World Bank and other international financial organizations.
Prof Prasad stated that he felt obligated to deliver this message during Mr. Banga’s first visit to the region and acknowledged that many of his colleagues in finance share his sentiments. He mentioned the excitement surrounding the visit and expressed hope that it would lead to a deeper understanding of the Pacific’s ongoing calls for significant changes, enabling the World Bank to play a pivotal role in creating a resilient future for the Pacific.