Fiji achieves first for Pacific region at United Nations
14 June 2016
Noumea, New Caledonia – The Pacific Community (SPC) has welcomed the election of Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations,
Ambassador Peter Thomson, as President of the next session of the UN General Assembly.
In congratulating Ambassador Thomson, the Pacific Community Director-General, Dr Colin Tukuitonga, said this was a
momentous occasion for the Pacific Islands in the international arena.
“We are proud and delighted by the election of Fiji Ambassador Peter Thomson to the eminent position of President of the
71st UN General Assembly,” Dr Tukuitonga said.
“This reflects the confidence of the international community in Ambassador Thomson to take up this high profile role and
oversee the continued revitalisation of the work of the General Assembly.
“It’s significant in that it’s the first time a representative of the Pacific Islands region has become the
President-elect and acknowledges the contribution of Small Island Developing States to the UN family.
“This is a well-deserved appointment, and SPC stands ready to assist Ambassador Thomson with information and technical
support about the Pacific region, as needed,” he said.
The President-elect is due to formally take up the role at the start of the next session of the UN General Assembly in
September 2016.
Ambassador Thomson has stated that climate change will be a priority issue for him.
SPC was formally granted Permanent Observer status to the UN in December 2014 following the adoption of a resolution by
the UN General Assembly.
The resolution enabling SPC to participate as an observer in the sessions and work of the General Assembly was sponsored
by Ambassador Thomson on behalf of the Fiji delegation following a decision taken at the 8th Conference of the Pacific
Community.
Fiji is one of 26 country and territory members of the Pacific Community.
ENDS