Henry Puna, the former Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, has been appointed as the Interim Director of the Pacific Islands Development Program (PIDP) at the East-West Centre. Celeste Connors, President of the East-West Centre, made the announcement, highlighting the organization’s renewed commitment to addressing Pacific economic security, set to commence in 2026.
Prime Minister Mark Brown of the Cook Islands expressed pride in Puna’s new role, recognizing it as a significant testament to his leadership within the region. Brown emphasized the appointment as an opportunity to strengthen ties between the Cook Islands and the East-West Centre, reinforcing the importance of regional collaboration.
Puna, who has previously held the role of Prime Minister in the Cook Islands, steps into this position at a crucial moment for the Pacific, which is gaining increased global attention. His leadership is expected to enhance PIDP’s initiatives aimed at fostering economic collaboration and resilience.
Connors elaborated on PIDP’s strategic direction, outlining a renewed focus on establishing pathways for investment and fostering cooperation across the region. She underscored the vital need for trust and partnership. The PIDP’s engagement strategy will be launched with the U.S. Investment Summit with Pacific Leaders scheduled for February 22–24. This summit, organized in partnership with the United States Department of State and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), aims to strengthen connections between U.S. authorities and the Pacific private sector, marking a significant milestone in PIDP’s efforts.
As this new phase begins, there is a hopeful outlook regarding the future of economic security and collaboration in the Pacific, particularly under Puna’s experienced stewardship at PIDP. The initiatives set to roll out promise to bolster the region’s global standing and enhance partnerships, paving the way for sustainable development in the coming years.