Media Release
September 7 2012
UK Joins SPREP
The UK is delighted to become a member of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), the
region’s lead agency on climate and environmental issues.
The UK is proud of its longstanding historical ties with the Pacific. We share a rich relationship based on mutual
respect and a set of shared values.
The UK Government is seized of the challenges faced by Pacific Island Countries in responding to climate change, and is
committed to providing practical and financial support to secure the Pacific’s future.
The UK’s intention to apply for membership of SPREP was announced at the 2011 Pacific Island Forum (PIF) by Minister
Jeremy Browne. Just a year later we have realised this ambition and a UK delegation, led by Tony Clemson (First
Secretary, BHC Wellington), who is Climate Change Coordinator for the Pacific, is participating at the 23rd SPREP
Meeting of Officials, in Noumea, New Caledonia 4-7 September.
Mr Clemson said "...the UK's membership enhances the UK's ability to play an active role supporting Pacific Island
Countries, in particular responding to the challenges of climate change. We are delighted to receive such a warm welcome
to SPREP and look forward to working closely with the Secretariat and member countries".
Ends