Fiji, July 14 -- The Pacific Islands Forum's Deputy Secretary General Esala Nayasi has praised Solomon Islands for its leadership ahead of the 54th Forum Leaders Meeting, calling the gathering a "decisive moment" for the region.

"Let me begin by congratulating you, Prime Minister, your Government and the People of Solomon Islands for your unwavering commitment and leadership in hosting this year's Forum," Nayasi said at the official launch of the Forum's theme and logo in Honiara last week.

This year's theme - "Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent" - was described by Nayasi as "powerful, timely, and deeply rooted in our Pacific values of unity, solidarity, and collective action."

Nayasi said the upcoming summit...