By: L.N. Reklai
HONIARA, Solomon Islands (Island Times) — “The media plays a vital role. You are not here as observers. You are participants and partners in shaping the future of our region,” Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele told journalists as he welcomed them to the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
The meeting, which runs from Sept. 8 to 12 in Honiara, gathers leaders from across the Pacific to discuss urgent challenges such as climate change, resource management and economic resilience.
Manele underscored the importance of journalists in helping Pacific Islanders understand the decisions of their leaders, calling for reporting that is both fair and ethical. He urged media representatives to translate policies and strategies into stories that resonate with everyday people.
Hosting the forum for the third time since 1979 and 1992, Manele said the Solomon Islands’ commitment to Pacific solidarity and unity is reflected in this year’s theme, “An Integrated Blue Pacific Continent.” He said the vision of a peaceful, resilient and future-ready Pacific must be embraced by the people to succeed.
“The forum will debate strategies and frameworks, but our people will ask, what does this mean for me, for my family, for my community?” Manele said. “It is through your work that those answers will be found.”
He acknowledged the challenges faced by many Pacific newsrooms with limited resources but emphasized that their work remains critical in ensuring that citizens are connected to important discussions.
Manele also highlighted the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, describing it as a long-term plan for resilience, security and prosperity. He said the strategy must be measured not by official communiques, but by tangible outcomes that improve lives.
“The canoe of the Blue Pacific has already set sail,” Manele said, using a metaphor to describe the region’s collective journey. “The waters may be uncertain by rising seas, global shifts and economic pressures, but if we paddle together, guided by our shared values and united in purpose, we will reach our destination.”
He’s exactly right! Let’s pray that Palau media remains free, independent, unbiased, and without prejudice; not becoming a tool for the few powerful whose currency is misleading and falsified information. I have utmost respect for media and journalism as long as it is biased free and committed to fair reporting. Thank you for keeping Palau informed!!