Fiji Prime Minister Bids Farewell to Pacific Islands Forum Leader Henry Puna

On May 17, 2024, Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka bid farewell to Henry Puna, the outgoing Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat. The farewell ceremony marked the end of Puna's three-year tenure, during which he was lauded for his significant contributions to regionalism, gender equality, climate action, and economic development across Pacific Island nations.

Prime Minister Rabuka praised Puna's leadership, highlighting his deep understanding of the Forum and its membership. Rabuka noted that Puna's leadership was characterized by a steadfast commitment to advancing regionalism and addressing pressing issues facing Pacific Island nations.

During his tenure, Puna played a critical role in promoting gender equality, enhancing resilience, forging new partnerships, advancing climate action initiatives, engaging youth in climate negotiations, addressing the debt crisis, and facilitating trade and economic development across the region. Rabuka emphasized that Puna demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing the collective welfare and aspirations of Pacific Island nations.

In a statement, Prime Minister Rabuka said, 'Puna has demonstrated commitment to advancing Pacific Island nations' collective welfare and aspirations.' Rabuka's remarks emphasized Puna's significant contributions to the region during his tenure as Secretary-General.

Henry Puna served as Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat from 2021 to 2024. During his tenure, he worked to promote regionalism, gender equality, climate action, and economic development across Pacific Island nations. Puna's leadership and legacy will be remembered for his contributions to the region's development and progress.

In his farewell address, Puna reflected on his time in office, expressing gratitude and appreciation for the friendships, challenges, experiences, and accomplishments achieved during his tenure. 'How fast time travels when one is having fun! I look around the room tonight and I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for the friendships, the challenges, the experiences, and the accomplishments that we have achieved together in the last 3 years,' Puna said.

Puna also acknowledged the challenges of the role, stating that it 'has pushed me to my limits both physically and mentally.' He expressed his appreciation for the confidence bestowed upon him by Pacific Island leaders in 2021 to serve as Secretary-General.

The farewell ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including representatives of Pacific Islands Forum members, the diplomatic corps, civil society, and the private sector. Puna's family, including his wife Akaiti and sons Edwin and Henry, and daughter-in-law Frances, were also present.

Reflecting on his experience, Puna stated, 'Leadership, I can say for certain, is something that can only be enriched by experience; and experience, can only be enriched by the lessons that we learn through life.' He emphasized the importance of leadership and experience in shaping his role as Secretary-General.

Henry Puna's farewell marks the end of his three-year term as Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat. His leadership has been instrumental in promoting regionalism, gender equality, climate action, and economic development across Pacific Island nations.

Key Takeaways

• Fiji PM Sitiveni Rabuka bids farewell to outgoing Pacific Islands Forum Secretary-General Henry Puna.
• Puna's 3-year tenure saw significant contributions to regionalism, gender equality, climate action, and economic development.
• Rabuka praises Puna's leadership, commitment to advancing Pacific Island nations' collective welfare and aspirations.
• Puna reflects on his time in office, expressing gratitude and appreciation for friendships, challenges, and accomplishments.
• Puna's farewell marks the end of his 3-year term as Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.