Excellencies, Honourable Prime Ministers, and Heads of Delegation
Representatives of the Korean Private Sector
Distinguished Guests, Ladies, and Gentlemen
Kia Orana, and warm Pacific greetings from the Blue Pacific.
Let me convey, first and foremost, the apologies of my Prime Minister who is unable to join us this evening because of weather-related - flight disruptions out of Rarotonga.
It is a poignant reminder of the persistent climate crisis that we face on a daily basis in the Pacific region and we continue to advocate on, including here this evening.
Let me begin by acknowledging the value of this engagement this evening – it is an opportunity to meet with distinguished representatives of the vibrant private sector here in Korea.
You represent opportunities and gateways for our Pacific economies – opportunities in innovation, connectivity, agricultural practice and business acumen.
We come to Korea as a region, to honour the invitation of your President to this inaugural Republic of Korea-Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Summit.
The Summit is a representation of the deepening relations and partnership between Korea and our Pacific region.
We are confident that this partnership will support our own vision and development aspirations in the Pacific region as framed through the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and including, most especially on economic development.
Ours is a region that is rich in resources – oceanic resources.
Our challenge is to convert these resources into sustainable development opportunities for our economies.
Korea is a global leader in innovation, technology and design and there is no doubt that there is potential for us to learn from the rich industry experience that is here.
I recognise that a number of Korean businesses are already investing in the region, however, I would encourage consideration of the establishment of more digital platform businesses in the region and the establishment of joint venture opportunities, particularly in agriculture, fisheries and forestry.
Further to this, Tourism remains a primary industry across many of our smaller island nations. We would encourage the resumption of direct flight linkages between the Pacific and Korea to cater to the changing Korean market demographics who seek unique destinations that serve the family, wellness and honeymoon market.
Finally, to support two-way market access and investment, we would encourage the establishment of a Pacific Trade and Invest Office to support business-to-business partnerships between Korea and the Pacific region.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, The future and potential of the Korea – Pacific partnership is rich and I encourage us all this evening to engage robustly to open opportunities for our people. I thank you.