Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently engaging in discussions with existing donors of the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF). He has appointed the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs to serve as the Interim Secretary-General for the forum.
Rabuka expressed satisfaction with the present interim setup, which is being managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He assured that the operations will remain independent, supported by a robust two-tier accountability and oversight framework.
The Prime Minister noted that some Pacific Island nations wish to see PIDF continue, emphasizing that the organization serves their interests, regardless of its name. He acknowledged that PIDF has faced management challenges, but these have been addressed by the Ministry through effective internal controls and enhanced governance structures.
As the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Rabuka indicated that PIDF is under review and is in the process of evolving into a cohesive organization that emphasizes project delivery across various sectors and regions.
Founded in 2013, PIDF was designed to reflect the foreign policy of the previous administration. Rabuka explained that its creation was a response to the void left when Fiji’s partners held the government accountable for violations of democratic principles and the rules-based order essential to society.
In 2015, PIDF gained recognition as an international organization and subsequently became an official Observer to the United Nations General Assembly in 2016.