Pacific Plan priority at forum

National, Normal
Source:

The National, Wednesday 29th August, 2012

REVIEWING of the Pacific Plan is at the top agenda for the 43rd Pacific Islands Forum this week in the Cook Islands, Commonwealth Secretariat director governance and institutional development,  Max Everest Philips said yesterday. 
The plan is a medium-term framework of priorities for Pacific countries and was endorsed at the Forum in Madang in 2005 and drawn up in 2009.
It will conclude at the end of this year. 
It has been an instrument used in initiating developments and supporting progressive outcomes to develop Pacific countries in terms of sustainable economic, social and political maturity.
Philips said it was vital to examine and review the plan to suit developing socio-economic and sustainable developments for the island nations, at the same time be in line with the international environment and global development arrangements.
“Seven years on, it is timely that leaders are taking stock of progress with the Pacific Plan.
“With a focus on economic growth, sustainable development, good governance and security, its aim was to boost living standards and opportunities for the peoples of the region, particularly those from small island developing states.
“The plan will top the agenda when regional leaders gather at the annual forum which takes place this year in Rarotonga from Aug 28-29.
“They will examine the plan’s development framework and its relevance to the changing socio-economic and political landscapes of the region, in line with the international environment and global development dialogue,” Philips said in a statement.
The review of the plan is expected to boost efforts in driving good governance, promote regional integration, help pool scarce human and financial resources and strengthen development co-ordination in the island nations.
The call to review the plan was by Pacific Island Forum secretary-general Tuiloma Slade.