The Pacific Community (SPC) celebrated the first anniversary of its Polynesia Regional Office (PRO), marking a significant milestone in bringing tailored scientific and technical services closer to its Polynesian member countries and territories.
Established in April 2023 in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, following previous institutional reviews, the PRO has grown to become a vital component of SPC's regional service ecosystem, focussing on decentralised service delivery, authentic and strategic engagement and strengthening partnerships and investment interests.
The event was officiated by Their Royal Highnesses, The Crown Prince Tupouto'a-'Ulukalala and Crown Princess Sinaitakala Tuku'aho.
In delivering his remarks at the event, the Prime Minister of Tonga, Honourable Hu'akavameiliku, highlighted the significance of establishing the PRO in Tonga, calling it a milestone for both the country and the Polynesian region and noted that the office's creation responded to changing needs and preferences of SPC members for service delivery.
"We are honoured to have received the trust and support of our Polynesia family to host the PRO in Tonga. The establishment of this office in Nuku'alofa on 27 April 2023 was not just a milestone for Tonga but for Polynesia as a whole,” said Hon. Hu'akavameiliku.
He added, “As Chair of the Forum, I acknowledge the support of the SPC through a number of side events taking place over this Forum Leaders Week. Their work is crucial to our efforts for sustainable development. I bring my support to the regional collective actions, including the Digital Earth Pacific initiative, the Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity, and the launch of the Regional Diploma in Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning, which also aligns with the Tonga government priority agenda.”
The Prime Minister concluded by emphasising the strength of engagement among the Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific (CROP), stating that the celebration highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen the "one CROP goal". He noted that this aligns with Polynesian values, including what Tongans refer to as "tauhi va" – maintaining close relations crucial to transforming the Pacific into a resilient region.
In his speech, SPC Director General Dr Stuart Minchin highlighted the strategic importance of the Polynesia Regional Office and its journey from conception to reality.
“At the heart of SPC's success is our unwavering commitment to member engagement and relationship building. The PRO serves as a direct link between SPC and our Polynesian members and partners, fostering collaboration and support.”
“Previous institutional reviews have highlighted the need to bolster SPC's presence and strengthen sub-regional mechanisms. This path led to the endorsement of the Polynesia Regional Office by the 51st Committee of Representatives of Governments and Administrations in 2021.”
“Fast forward to October 2022, during the 52nd Meeting of the SPC Conference, Tonga won its bid to host the Polynesia Regional Office. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. Hu’akavameiliku, for his exemplary leadership, which culminated in the official establishment of the Polynesia Regional Office in April 2023, a mere six months after our Conference's decision.”
The event was celebrated by hosting everyone engaged with the PRO, including members of the Tonga Royal Family, Pacific Islands Forum Leaders, government officials, non-governmental organisations, civil society representatives, and SPC’s valued partners.