Preparations are well underway in Palau for the 45th Pacific Islands Forum leaders' summit, which opens tonight in the capital of Koror.
Forum leaders meet annually to develop a collaborative response to regional issues such as climate change.
Amelia Langford is in Palau.
"At least 300 delegates including leaders, ministers and senior officials are now in Palau's capital. The Forum's Secretary-General, Tuiloma Neroni Slade, says Palau's chosen theme of oceans is a very timely one and has particular significance in the lead up to the upcoming Small Island Developing States conference, which is to be held in Samoa in September. Mr Slade says key considerations for leaders at this year's Forum will include a review of the Pacific Plan. Forum leaders are also expected to canvas regional security, the protection of the fisheries and announce a replacement for Mr Slade, who has finished his term. Palau is also hosting the Smaller Island States leaders' meeting today, which is a precursor to the leaders' Forum."
