REMARKS: SG Puna to the 6th PTI Independent Advisory Board Meeting

Colleague Members of the PTI Independent Advisory Board:

Michelle Macdonald

Vani Nades

Fletcher Melvin

Ian Clarke

Trade Commissioners Caleb Jarvis, Glynis Miller, Mr. Mona Mato, Ms. Jodie Stewart and PIC Tokyo Director Ryuzo Saito

Directors Zarak Khan and Apaitia Veiogo

Officers of the PTI Project Management Unit

Kia Orana, and a hearty bula vinaka to you all. It is my distinct pleasure to extend to you all a warm welcome to the 6th PTI Independent Advisory Board meeting.

In 2021, when I began my tenure as Secretary General, I wanted to drive the development of the private sector throughout our region. Recognizing the wealth of resources at our disposal, it became clear that we simply needed to ignite the flames of progress.

And so, we set forth on a journey, establishing the Project Management Unit of the PTI and assembling the Independent Advisory Board to align our efforts with the priorities of our leaders and the broader region, paving the way for implementation at the grassroots level.

Today, I commend each and every one of you for the remarkable strides we’ve made together. While I had hoped to meet face-to-face, I remain optimistic that we will have the opportunity to reconvene in person in the near future.

The accomplishments of the PTI Network over the past year are truly commendable. Assisting over 1,300 businesses across the FICs, facilitating over FJD 156million in exports and FJD 33million in investments underscoring the tangible impact of our collective efforts.

As we delve into today’s agenda, we embark on a journey marked by significant milestones. Director Zarak will provide updates from the Secretariat, shedding light on areas of relevance for PTI.

Following this, our Trade Commissioners and Director Saito will share their achievements from 2023 and outline their plans for the current year.

In our previous meeting in Auckland, NZ, the issue of long-term funding and the sustainability of the PTI Network emerged as a key concern.

Today, our Board members will present to us all, on possible funding modalities.

Additionally, our Corporate Team will provide updates on a scoping exercise concerning overseas offices and the transition to IPSAS financial reporting standards.

As we near the end of my tenure, I must express my heartfelt gratitude for the remarkable opportunity to work alongside each and every one of you over the past three years. Your unwavering dedication and commitment to our region’s prosperity has been truly inspiring. Rest assured, my office remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the PTI Network, ensuring its administrative strength, and fostering sound governance.

I eagerly anticipate the comprehensive discussions that lie ahead. I encourage us all to work together, united by a shared vision and unwavering commitment, to steer PTI toward greater success and prosperity for our members and partners.

Vinaka vakalevu, and I thank you.

[ENDS]