Foreign Affairs Minister Lenora Qereqeretabua emphasized that despite ongoing conflicts in various regions, many women leaders in these areas have been communicating with each other, highlighting the supportive nature of women in the Pacific. Speaking at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Apia, Samoa, during a women’s forum, she noted that women across the Commonwealth face similar challenges and that there is a strong need to encourage them to empower one another in leadership roles.
“Seeing women leaders in conflict zones conversing is uplifting, as it indicates that despite national differences, women are reaching out to one another even with their nations at odds,” stated Ms. Qereqeretabua. She underscored the importance of fostering younger women’s entry into leadership positions, describing it as highly encouraging.
She added, “We can learn from each other how women in various community sectors are facilitating discussions that aid other women in asserting their presence, especially as older women transition out of these roles.” Ms. Qereqeretabua reiterated the significance of these interactions among women from conflicting nations.