Fiji, Sept. 8 -- Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa says the Smaller Island States (SIS) remain central to the Forum's work and must continue to have their priorities embedded in the wider regional agenda.

"At the outset, allow me to thank you, Mr Chair, for your welcome remarks, and to congratulate you on assuming the Chairmanship of the Smaller Island States," Waqa told SIS Leaders at their meeting in Honiara this morning.

"I also join you in conveying our solidarity to the people of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, in light of the recent events. It is a reminder to us all of the fragility of our systems and the resilience required of our people."

Waqa said the SIS group had "always held a special place within th...