Cook Islands, PM Brown put on a show for Pacific Leaders

The 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting got off to a colourful start with a proud display of vibrant Cook Islands culture and tradition at the National Auditorium on Monday night.

Prime Minister and Pacific Islands Forum chair Mark Brown, pictured, welcomed the leaders and representatives from the Forum’s 18 member countries taking part in the annual meeting in Rarotonga and Aitutaki this week.

The leaders and their delegation were treated to entertainment by children and a Manihiki dance group. The event, which was open to the public, ended with dinner for everyone.

The Pacific Islands Forum is the region's premier political and economic policy organisation. It plays a vital role in promoting cooperation and regional integration among its member countries. The annual meeting of leaders is a key event in the Forum’s calendar, and provides a platform for leaders to discuss and address the region's most pressing challenges.