NZ Provides $4m To Forum
NZ provides $4m to Forum for 2006
64-05 PRESS STATEMENT 15 Dec 2005 15:02:36 NZ PROVIDES $4M TO FORUM New Zealand has provided NZ$4 million to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat to help support a number of regional programmes in 2006. The funding from New Zealand is very much appreciated and will greatly assist our efforts to implement decisions by Forum Leaders, said Forum Secretary General, Greg Urwin. The funding agreement was signed this week by Mr Urwin and New Zealand's High Commissioner in Fiji, HE Michael Green. New Zealand is both a member of the Forum and a major donor partner. This latest funding arrangement is a reflection of its long standing commitment to development in the region, Mr Urwin said. "The Forum Secretariat is the region's key policy organisation and plays a pivotal role in enhancing the prosperity and security of the countries of the Pacific. This level of funding support from New Zealand is a recognition of the Secretariat's important functions, including in guiding the implementation of the Pacific Plan for strengthening regional cooperation and integration." Mr Green said. The funds include New Zealand's member country contribution to the Regular Budget, which covers the cost of operating the Forum Secretariat New Zealand provides about one third of this amount, Australia another third, and the remaining third is split among the 14 Forum Island Countries. Most of the NZ$4 million will go towards the Secretariat's Extra Budget in 2006, which comprises donor-funded programmes and other activities. New Zealand's funding will enable the Secretariat to assist the Forum Island Countries in areas such as facilitating trade and increasing export returns; coordinating aid support from donors; improving health and education; and maintaining law and order and the safety of citizens. The remainder of the funds will be used to support the work of the Forum trade office in Auckland, New Zealand. Forum Secretariat, Suva 16 December 2005 |
2005