By Tupuola Terry Tavita

The 3rd United Nations conference on Small Island States will be watershed meeting not only in addressing climate change issues but a waypost summit on how the world is faring with their Millennium Development Goals.

To be hosted in Apia – September next year – Prime Minister Tuilaepa who has just returned from New York, says the UN General Assembly is satisfied with Samoa’s preparations and are looking forward to coming to Samoa.

“It will be the last big meeting before 2015 – which is the deadline for the UN’s development framework. There is at the moment a lot of pressure for countries to meet their UN-specified development goals by then. The Apia meeting, therefore, will be a signpost meeting for countries to compare notes and see where they are lagging behind.�?

The theme of the meeting, he said, will be partnerships, especially in addressing the impacts of climate change.

“We are all aware of the impact of climate change, particularly rising levels in this part of the globe. We also know the solution to it. That leaders of developed countries are dragging their feet in reducing their carbon emissions, in regards to their development agendas, which directly contributes to the rapidly changing climate.

“The Apia meeting therefore, will be a landmark summit to address these climate change issues that is severely affecting our part of the world.�?

Prime Minister Tuilaepa revealed – while in New York – Samoa hosted a breakfast meeting with many national leaders – including UN Scretary-Genral Mr Banki Moon – to canvass Samoa’s preparations programme.

“The feedback was unanimous – we can’t wait to come to Samoa.�?

The Prime Minister said that preparations are well ahead with refurbishments already underway at the Faleata Sports Complex, the summit venue.

The facilities, he said, will be inter-connected by sheltered walkways and miniature roadways for electric cars – which will be the main mode of transportation within the vast complex.

The Prime Minister said that schools will be on holiday during the meeting and “top teachers�? will be very well be deployed as liaison officers.

“There are also security personnel and transportation plans and whole lot of other issues. Apart from hotels and resorts, families with available separate living units of quality standards can be rented out for delegates. Several churches have also approached government offering their accommodation facilities. There is also the issue of local entertainers which will be a highlight of the conference. So there are a whole range of options and issues that the committee is working through.  There is still plenty of time for arrangements and negotiations with these parties.

An estimated 3000 delegates are expected to converge in Apia during SIDS, 2014.

“It will be by far the largest gathering to be hosted in the region, including New Zealand and Australia. We are very confident our country is up to the task. Besides, hosting guests is not new to Samoa. Genuine hospitality is a big part of our culture. With the assistance of our development partners and the can-do attitude of our people , we will no doubt put up an excellent and enjoyable summit.�?

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