7 Aug 2004

UN tells summit solidarity will help Pacific

9:38 am on 7 August 2004

The United Nations has given a pledge to help Pacific Island countries fight the region's pressing problems.

The UN High Representative for Small Island Developing States, Anwarul Chowdhury told the leaders' summit in Samoa yesterday that the global organisation backs moves to tackle rising sea levels, AIDS and the need for better trading opportunities.

Mr Chowdhury's praised the Forum's ability to work together as equals - using the example of Australia's with its 20 million strong population, alongside Niue's 1,700.

On behalf of the UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, Mr Chowdhrury said international solidarity could make a critical difference in responding to the aspirations of Pacific peoples.