Fiji takes chairmanship of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG)

In a significant achievement attained today for the MSG Family, Fiji has assumed the chairmanship of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) during the 23rd Melanesian Spearhead Group leaders’ Summit held at the Bose Levu Vakaturaga (BLV) Talanoa Lounge in Suva.

In traditional ceremony accorded at the BLV Grounds, the MSG Chairmanship was handed over to Fiji from Vanuatu. The Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka and Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Hon. Jotham Napat in their remarks reaffirmed the regional solidarity and shared commitment to building a “Peaceful and Prosperous Melanesia”.

As part of the handover program, Minister Rabuka was presented with a traditional ceremonial spear from the Prime Minister Jotham Napat of Vanuatu, symbolizing the gesture of great honor and trust bestowed with Fiji’s chairmanship.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Rabuka thanked Prime Minister Napat and the Government of the Republic of Vanuatu for their able leadership of the sub-regional group since 2022 and the achievements reached during their tenure as Chair.

“I especially acknowledge their leadership despite the challenges faced. I am encouraged that in the face of such adversity, the true Melanesian spirit of resilience and perseverance was demonstrated as our sub-region came together to assist and show support. We continue to stand by the people and Government of Vanuatu in their recovery.”

As Fiji takes on the mantle of leadership, Prime Minister Rabuka affirmed Fiji’s commitment to build on the hard work and success that has been laid before us, stating that it is not a responsibility we take lightly, especially as we are confronted with an increasingly fragmented global landscape that demands more of us.

“These circumstances only reaffirm the need for us to remain united, to stand together in solidarity and in our shared hope for a peaceful and prosperous Melanesia. I look forward to working closely with all MSG Leaders towards advancing Melanesia as the region of opportunity,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
Prime Minister Napat in his remarks said that, “It is therefore with full confidence, deep admiration, and fraternal joy that I now extend the gavel of Chairmanship to the Republic of Fiji — a nation whose leadership history within our region is as rich as its contributions are enduring.

“Honourable Prime Minister Rabuka — your return to this esteemed role is not merely a matter of protocol. It is a profound full circle in the narrative of regional diplomacy. You led Fiji into the MSG nearly three decades ago; today, you return to lead it with experience burnished by time and a spirit undimmed by age.”

The MSG Summit also featured a Leaders’ Retreat, which provided MSG Leaders with an opportunity to engage on issues of common interest and priorities.
The High-Level delegation at the 23rd MSG Summit also included:

Hon. James Marape, Prime Minister of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Mr. Roch Wamytan, FLNKS Representative & former President of Congress of New Caledonia, Vice Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir