The outgoing chair of the Pacific Forum's Small Island States group, Cook Islands prime minister Henry Puna, says members need to ensure the small states can afford to pay for decisions reached at this week's summit.
Cook Islands PM Henry Puna at SIS meeting Apia Photo: RNZI/Monica Miller
Speaking at the opening of the SIS Leaders meeting ahead of the 48th meeting of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders in Apia Mr Puna said the development and adoption of the SIS regional strategy last year was a significant milestone.
But he said that was only the beginning and more effort is needed this year to translate this plan into action and ensure tangible benefits.
Mr Puna also stressed an important factor to consider is whether the strategy now in place is affordable for member countries.