Italy-Pacific Islands Forum In 2008
The Italian Government has pledged to convene an Italy-Pacific Islands Forum towards the end of 2008.
Italian Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Stefano Staraco Janfolla has assured the Solomon Islands
Government through the Governor General Sir Nathaniel Waena that the initiative is part of the ongoing interest of the
Italian government to deepen the bilateral relations with Pacific Island countries.
Mr Staraco said the aim of the Italy-Pacific Islands Forum summit will not only focus on political issues, but also on
economic development and trade.
During the presentation of his credentials to the Sir Nathaniel on Friday, Mr Staraco also relates the Italian
government’s appreciation of the support shown by the Solomon Islands government to Italy’s application to become a
dialogue Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum Post Forum Dialogue Partner.
Italy was one of the countries to have recently joined the Post Forum Dialogue Partners Forum during the Forum Meeting
in Tonga on October last year, and was represented by the Secretary of State, Gianni Vernetti.
Ambassador Staraco, based at the Italian Embassy in Canberra, Australia said his government’s acceptance into the Post
Forum Dialogue represents a significant stepping stone in increasing Italy’s commitment to development and peace in the
region, in coordination with Italy’s partners in the European Union and other actors.
Mr Staraco said the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Italy and the Pacific Islands countries on
cooperation program on the adaptation to climate change, development and dissemination of local renewable energy, and
reduction of greenhouse gases will commit €8 million (Euros) to development in the Pacific within the next three years.
In the Solomon Islands, the Italian Government’s bilateral assistance will be focusing on the health sector through the
purchase of medical equipments.
Meanwhile, Mr Staraco assured the Solomon Islands Government that Italy will continue to support the UN in its effort to
continue to play a decisive role in international relations.
Mr Staraco assured the Governor General that at a time when the international community faces serious threats to peace
and security, it is important that Italy nd the Solomon Islands widen their collaborations in the fields of security,
economic development, social progress and environmental challenges.
During the presentation of his credentials at the Government House on Friday, Ambassador Staraco also conveyed the best
wishes of the President of Italy, Mr Giorgio Napolitano people of Solomon Islands and the wellbeing of His Excellency,
Sir Nathaniel.
Ends