The Third Japan-PIF Summit Meeting (PALM 2003)

May 9, 2003

The Government of Japan will host the Third Japan-Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Summit Meeting also known as PALM 2003, on May 16 (Fri) and 17 (Sat) at the Bankoku Shinryokan in Nago City, Okinawa.
The Summit Meeting will be co-chaired by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase of the Republic of the Fiji Islands, current chair of the PIF, and attended by the leaders of the 16 members of the PIF. New Caledonia is expected to attend as an observer.
Taking into account the cooperative relationship between Japan and the PIF since the Second Japan-PIF Summit Meeting in 2000 and the recent progress on the international community's efforts toward development, PALM 2003 is aimed at a frank exchange of views among the participating leaders on regional development strategies that are based on the principles and commitments adopted in the United Nations Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) and at the World Summit on Sustainable Development which was held in Johannesburg in September last year. PALM 2003 is expected to translate these principles and commitments into a joint action plan in the Pacific region. The issues on the agenda will include security, environment, education and human resources development, health and trade and investment.
With the cooperation of Okinawa Prefecture and Nago City, there will be exchange programs between the Summit participants and the people of Okinawa, including a luncheon hosted by Mr. Keiichi Inamine, Governor of Okinawa, an introduction of the traditional dance and music performance of Okinawa, an exhibition by local NGOs and other events involving the people of Okinawa.

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