Marape disappointed over decision

PRIME Minister James Marape has expressed his disappointment with a recent decision taken by the Micronesian presidents’ summit to exit the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).
Marape said Papua New Guinea noted and respected the right of the Micronesian presidents’ group on its decision and called for the PIF to review its charter and processes to ensure it was aware of matters concerning all areas, as well as a sub-regional balance in its structure, functions and mandate.
“My strong views in terms of an amicable solution is for the secretary-general’s position to be rotated among the three sub-regions for a four-year term, non-contestable upon expiry,” he said.
“This will strike a balance in terms of fair representation and composition of PIF.”
Marape said this would be among other proposals PNG would be putting forward to ensure all voices were heard and he appealed to the Micronesian group to remain with the PIF while it collectively worked to reform itself to ensure all members’ rights were respected and preserved in the true “Pacific way”.