Focus on low islands welcomed

SAMOA – Samoa’s prime minister has welcomed the focus of the Commonwealth on vulnerable member states affected by climate change. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi was speaking from London at the closing of the CHOGM conference on Friday. All 53 member countries have affirmed their commitment to the most ambitious UN Paris Agreement target of limiting the increase of global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial times. Members also committed to protecting oceans and marine environments from threats such as climate change, pollution and over fishing. Tuilaepa welcomed the renewed interest in the Commonwealth’s values and principles. “As well we welcome the focus of the Commonwealth familty to acknowledge the most vulnerable of its members. In particular, the impacts of climate change on our small island developing states.” Tuilaepa acknowledged the Commonwealth working to foster a fairer, more prosperous and sustainable future for all. Samoa is to host the CHOGM conference in 2022. - RNZI