Niue premier Toke Talagi and Cook Islands prime minister Henry Puna. Photo: RNZI / Koro Vaka'uta
Leaders attending the 46th Pacific Islands Forum summit have entered their day-long closed door retreat to look at the major regional issues.
Climate Change has dominated the summit so far but other issues are expected to emerge from that shadow today.
Koro Vaka'uta reports from Port Moresby.
"Melanesian countries have some of the highest cervical cancer rates in the world. In Papua New Guinea alone, 1500 die a year due to the disease. Leaders are being asked to resolve distribution and cost issues to reduce HPV related cervical cancer. Information and communication technology's also being looked at because of its importance in disaster preparedness and response. As well, it's been estimated that a ten percent increase in broadband capacity could lead to a rise of up to over 1.3% in Gross Domestic Product. Consensus will be sought on climate change but it's doubtful small island states will get their wish for greater action. A fact-finding mission to West Papua has been proposed but that too may fail through lack of support. Meanwhile the likes of Niue and New Zealand are pushing for a more quota aligned fisheries system rather than the current vessel day arrangement."
