Pacific leaders welcomed in traditional Cook Islands style

Pacific leaders arriving for the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting hosted by the Cook Islands are being welcomed at the Rarotonga International Airport in traditional Cook Islands style, with a traditional chant, riveting drum beats, and enchanting dancers.

The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga, Siaosi 'Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni, and the Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Kausea Natano, landed yesterday via Air New Zealand and were greeted by Deputy Prime Minister Robert Tapaitau and Minister Vaine “Mac” Mokoroa.

Today, the Premier of Niue, Dalton Talagi, the President of French Polynesia, Moetai Brotherson, and the President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr, are scheduled to arrive.

The remaining Pacific leaders, including Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, are scheduled to arrive in Rarotonga tomorrow night.