Leaders from the Pacific region are gathering for the Pacific Regional Dialogue, a pivotal event focused on tackling pressing challenges like climate change, food insecurity, and economic instability with an emphasis on cooperatives. Scheduled to take place in Nadi from tomorrow through January 30, the dialogue will bring together senior government officials, cooperative leaders, and development partners at Tokatoka Resort.
This three-day event is a collaborative effort between the International Cooperative Alliance Asia and Pacific (ICA-AP) and Fiji’s Department of Cooperative Business, with support from the ICA–EU Financial Framework Partnership Agreement. Participants will engage in a rich program featuring keynote addresses and a regional panel discussion centered on how cooperatives can foster a blue-green economy in the Pacific.
Highlights will include discussions on policy and legal frameworks conducive to cooperative development, innovative financing solutions, and the integration of technology to bolster cooperative ecosystems. A strong focus will be placed on empowering women, youth, and indigenous communities to take active leadership roles within the cooperative landscape, fostering inclusivity and resilience throughout the sector.
One of the key objectives of the conference is the creation of a Pacific Island Cooperative Action Agenda that aligns with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This agenda aims to unify regional priorities and enhance collaboration within the Pacific Island Cooperative Network, facilitating ongoing partnerships.
The program will also feature visits to local cooperatives, offering participants hands-on insights into sustainable livelihoods and community resilience practices being implemented in Fiji. This dialogue represents a significant step toward a more sustainable and cooperative future for the Pacific, illuminating pathways to address shared concerns while building stronger, interconnected communities.