''The EU is one of the major donors in the region and we wish to have a true partnership with the Pacific, led by a spirit of trust and close cooperation and our attendance in this significant regional gathering is a testament to this.  We are likeminded in many areas of cooperation, e.g. climate change, environment and ocean governance.'' said Mr. Pampaloni.

This year's CRGA focused on the theme Ocean Science – A sustainable future for the Blue Pacific- something Mr Pampaloni said the EU is proud to be supporting through the EUR 45 million Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) Programme- a four-year initiative co-funded by the European Union (EU) and the Government of Sweden, which promotes sustainable management and sound ocean governance for food security and economic growth, while addressing climate change resilience and conservation of marine biodiversity.

Mr Pampaloni was accompanied by the Head of Cooperation, Mr. Christoph Wagner and in the margins of the meetings met with His Excellency the President of New Caledonia, Philippe Germain and had meaningful discussion relating to post-2020 relations, EU-New Caledonia cooperation & the role of New Caledonia in the Pacific.

Ends.