Fiji has officially taken over the chairmanship of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) from Vanuatu during a traditional handover ceremony held this morning at the 23rd MSG Leaders’ Summit in Suva.
The handover marks the end of Vanuatu’s two-year leadership of the regional body. In his keynote address, Vanuatu Prime Minister Hon. Jotham Napat reflected on the legacy of unity and cultural pride that defines the MSG, calling the event a renewal of Melanesian cooperation.
“This is not merely a handover of a title,” said Prime Minister Napat. “It is the passing of a sacred flame — lit by our forebears, carried by our leaders, and fueled by the hopes of our people.”
PM Napat praised MSG’s role as a moral compass in the Pacific and thanked Fiji for its warm traditional welcome. He also acknowledged member countries for their support during Vanuatu’s term, especially following the December 2023 earthquake.
“To Fiji, PNG, Solomon Islands, and Kanaky — thank you for the solidarity you showed during our most difficult times. Your support has been the wind beneath our sails.”
Receiving the chairmanship, Fijian Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka thanked Vanuatu for its leadership and said Fiji is honored to carry the torch forward.
“As we take on this responsibility, we build on the strong foundation laid by Vanuatu,” Rabuka said. “Though the world faces conflict, poverty, and uncertainty, the MSG must stand united in hope, resilience, and purpose.”
PM Rabuka reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to peacebuilding in the region and envisioned Melanesia leading efforts to turn the Pacific into a “Zone of Peace.”
The summit concluded with a traditional gift exchange. As a customary token of thanks, Vanuatu presented symbolic gifts to the leaders and representatives from Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Kanaky.
This morning’s event marked not just a change in leadership, but a reaffirmation of Melanesian identity, diplomacy, and shared aspirations.
📸 Screenshot from Fiji Government Facebook / Official Fiji Government Page:
