Regional Conference for Pacific Women in Maritime ^Featured

Participants are discussing issues such as the challenges faced by women in maritime, energy and climate change, sustainable development, women’s rights and the Maritime Labour Convention.

CEO of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, ‘Ana Bing Fonua in her welcoming address said the Government of Tonga is in good support of women’s value.

“My government endorses the strongest support and efforts to raise awareness of women’s value in the society and their role in development especially in leading roles and there is no discrimination in any forms in these sectors,” she stated.

Fonua stated that this type of conference will raise awareness about the role of women in sustainable development around the Pacific.

“This conference and its means in advocating women’s rights, indicate to us that all of us have a better future for women in maritime.”

“And we must cease this opportunity and make sure that we shall not fail for failure is not an option in women in maritime.”

Director of Marine and Ports Tonga, Ms Kelelela Tonga said the conference recognise the economic contribution and leadership of women in the Pacific maritime sector.

“There are a lot of women who have higher position in both public and private sectors, so we are here today to recognise them and the roles they play in maritime.”

Tonga stated that this is the first time for Tonga to host a conference in regards to women in maritime.

She said that at the end of the week-long conference, participants will look at adopting a work plan for the Pacific Women Maritime Association (PacWiMA).

The conference is funded by the International Maritime Organization, Secretariat of the Pacific Community and the Ministry of Infrastructure.

Issued from the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications.