SMT – Newly appointed Director General Welcomed by the MSG Secretariat Staff

MEDIA RELEASE 📣

The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat is pleased to formally welcome its newly appointed Director General, Dr. Anna Naupa, as she assumes her official duties today, 27 July 2026, at the MSG Secretariat headquarters in Port Vila, Vanuatu.

It marks an important moment for the Secretariat and for the wider Melanesian family, as the organisation continues to advance the shared priorities of its Member Countries and uphold the founding values of Melanesian solidarity, cooperation, respect, and collective progress.

This historic appointment also marks Dr. Naupa as the first female and first ni-Vanuatu Director General of the MSG Secretariat, an achievement that carries profound significance and offers renewed hope and inspiration to women and girls across Melanesia.

Mr. Ilan Kiloe, who served as Acting Director General during the transition period, extended his warm congratulations to Dr. Naupa and reaffirmed the Secretariat’s full support for her leadership.

“The Secretariat looks forward to working under Dr. Naupa’s leadership as we continue to advance the shared priorities of our Member Countries and strengthen Melanesian solidarity,” said Mr. Kiloe.

As the Secretariat enters this new chapter, it reaffirms its commitment to teamwork, transparency, and transformative action across the foundational pillars of political, economic, and cultural cooperation.

In assuming office during Vanuatu’s independence anniversary period, Dr. Naupa acknowledged the enduring wisdom, strength, and courage of the region’s founding leaders, whose vision continues to guide the collective aspirations of Melanesia.

Dr. Naupa also reflected on her personal connection to Vanuatu’s national journey, recalling the public service of her late father, who served as Minister of Health and Minister of Public Works, and the contribution of her mother as an educator/Teacher at Malapoa College, where many of Vanuatu’s contemporary leaders were shaped.

Outlining her immediate strategic priorities, Dr. Naupa emphasized her commitment to strengthening the Secretariat’s Corporate Services, Political, and Trade programmes to better serve the MSG membership and support the implementation of Leaders’ decisions.

The MSG Secretariat extends its highest regards to Dr. Naupa and wishes her every success as she undertakes this esteemed role at the helm of the organisation.

#MSGSecretariat #MelanesianSpearheadGroup #Melanesia #PortVila #Vanuatu #Leadership #PacificLeadership #WomenInLeadership

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MSG LEADERS' RESOLUTION PRESENTED TO THE UN HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat formally presented the Pacific and MSG Leaders' resolution for the Human Rights Commission to visit West Papua and the Papuan Provinces in Indonesia during the 19th session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) in Geneva, Switzerland.

EMRIP is a key advisory body of the UN Human Rights Council. Its role is to provide critical advice to the Human Rights Council on the implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).  

The activity was actioned in line with the Leaders' Mandate. During the 22nd MSG Leaders’ Summit held in Port Vila in June 2023, MSG Leaders supported the call made by Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders in 2019 for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit West Papua and the Papuan Provinces. The call was reiterated by Pacific Leaders in 2025 during the PIF Leaders' meeting in Honiara and the MSG Summit in Suva, Fiji.  

The Acting Director General (ADG), Mr. Ilan Kiloe, said the MSG Secretariat’s engagement with the UN Human Rights Mechanisms is an important step in advancing the PIF and MSG Leaders' decision.  

“It is a small but significant step towards the implementation of the leaders’ decision to advance the voices of Melanesian peoples on the international stage and demonstrates the organization's strong commitment to promoting justice, human rights, and the rights of Indigenous Peoples,” Mr. Kiloe said. 

"The MSG Secretariat has championed advocacy on indigenous rights during the recently concluded ICJ Advisory Opinion on the obligations of states in respect to Climate Change, and we must continue to demonstrate that commitment," he added.  

In addition to attending the EMRIP session, the MSG Secretariat held a number of targeted bilateral meetings, particularly with the Chairperson of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP), Ms. Valmaine Toki; the Special Rapporteur on Indigenous Peoples, Dr. Albert K. Barume; the Chief of the Indigenous Peoples & Minorities Section of the United Nations, Mr. Hernan Vales; and special representatives of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD), UN Treaty Bodies, the UN Voluntary Fund, and the UN Youth Office.  

The mission concluded with a formal briefing session with the MSG Ambassadors & Permanent Representatives to the United Nations (PRUNs) based in Geneva, Switzerland. The briefing was organized by the Vanuatu Ambassador to the UN in Geneva, H.E. Sylvain Kalsakau, and hosted by Ambassador Mere Falemaka in the PIF Permanent Mission conference room.  

The MSG Secretariat team was led by ADG Kiloe and supported by Political Affairs Officer Richard Balkonan and Acting Programme Manager/Legal Officer Brittien Yosef.

📍 Photo: Acting Director General Ilan Kiloe, MSG Secretariat team, and MSG Ambassadors during the Geneva briefing hosted at the PIF Permanent Mission.

#MSGSecretariat #Melanesia #HumanRights #IndigenousRights #EMRIP19 #Geneva #PacificIslands 

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COMMENT BY JOE NATUMAN

Congratulations and thank you Acting Director General of MSG and your delegation for bringing our leaders' resolutions concerning abuses of human rights of  our melanesian sisters and brothers of West Papua to the attention of the United Nations Human Rights Council with the hope that a mission would be dispatched to West Papua soon to investigate the numerous human rights violations perpetrated by the occupying Indonesian military

MOU TO STRENGTHEN CULTURE, ARTS & REGIONAL COOPERATION

PORT MORESBY, PAPUA NEW GUINEA (26 May 2026): A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) recently formalized between the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat and the Papua New Guinea National Cultural Commission aims to strengthen culture, arts and regional cooperation.

While signing the MOU, PNG Minister for Arts, Culture & Tourism, Honourable Belden Namah, highlighted the importance of regional cultural cooperation.

He said that while the MOU formalizes cooperation in culture, arts and regional partnership amongst Melanesian countries, it demonstrated a shared commitment to collaboration in promoting and preserving the Melanesian culture, heritage and the Melanesian way.

The collaboration he said, will help build stronger cultural connections and cooperation moving forward.

Acting Director General of the MSG Secretariat, Ilan Kiloe expressed his appreciation to Hon. Namah and the Government and people of Papua New Guinea for their commitment to advancing Melanesian culture.

He said the MSG was excited and proud to sign the MOU as it reflected a shared commitment to promote, protect and advance the living cultures of our people across Melanesia.

ADG Kiloe welcomed the partnership stating it will strengthen ties between Members through culture and shared values, underscoring the significance of the Melanesian way of life.

#msgnews

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FIJI MELANESIAN ARTS & CULTURE FESTIVAL 2026 NATIONAL TASKFORCE HOLDS MEETING

Chaired by the Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Culture, Heritage & Arts, the Hon. Iferemi Vasu, the Fiji MACFEST26 National Taskforce held its inaugural meeting at the Ministry of itaukei Affairs HQ on Monday 22nd September 2025. 

The first meeting brought together key stakeholders who will advice and direct the Secretariat established to implement the Festival proper. 

We thank you for agreeing to our humble invitation and we look forward to working with you to ensure that a successful and uniquely different MACFEST is celebrated in Fiji recognizing the many artistic, heritage and cultural elements that embody our nation. 

The MACFEST Secretariat will soon roll out necessary decisions made by the National Taskforce and will keep you informed. 

Vinaka 

#MSG

#MACFEST

Fiji Arts Council 

Fiji Museum 

National Trust of Fiji Islands 

MSG Secretariat

MSG SECRETARIAT TEAM PAYS COURTESY CALL TO SOLOMON ISLANDS PRIME MINISTER

HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS (13 September, 2025): Our team led by the Acting Director General, Ilan Kiloe paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Pacific Islands Forum Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele this morning.

ADG Kiloe congratulated the Chair for a successful 54th PIFLM.

It was also an opportunity to brief the Prime Minister on some of the priorities of the Secretariat including the relocation of the Secretariat building following damages it sustained during the December 2024 earthquake.

PM Manele acknowledged the work done so far under the leadership of ADG Kiloe and assured the support of the Solomon Islands Government to deliver on Leaders' mandates.

MSG LAUDS ADVISORY OPINION IN LANDMARK CASE

STATES HAVE LEGAL OBLIGATIONS TO PROTECT CLIMATE: WORLD COURT

The HAGUE, NETHERLANDS (24 July 2025): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat has welcomed the historic ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that countries have legal obligations to protect the climate, saying it is a climate justice victory for Melanesia, the Pacific and planet Earth.

Acting Director General, Ilan Kiloe, speaking to world media right after the delivery of the Advisory Opinion, said the wisdom of MSG Leaders in tasking the MSG Secretariat to participate in the ICJAO proceedings was not made in vain, "yet yielded positive results that continue to make MSG a relevant and influential player in regional and global affairs".

He said it is also a huge win for the power of our youth to make an impact, referring to the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC)’s initial move that initially led to Vanuatu’s ICJ initiative.

The ICJ has ruled that climate change treaties and customary international law have binding obligations for States to ensure the protection of the climate system and other parts of the environment from greenhouse gases. These treaties include the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol, the Charter of the United Nations, and the Paris Agreement, among others.

States also have an obligation under customary international law to prevent significant harm to the environment by acting with due diligence.

Under international human rights law, states have an obligation to ensure “the effective enjoyment of human rights by taking necessary measures to protect the climate system”.

The ICJ has further ruled that a breach of any obligations by a State, constitutes an internationally wrongful act entailing the responsibility of that State.

ADG Kiloe said, “I am so proud of the 27 USP students from Emalus whose brilliant idea has not only reached the corridors of the world’s highest court, but has now become a fully-fledged ICJ Advisory Opinion, a significant push and providing more ammunition in our fight to be heard at international climate change talks”.

The ruling he added, is not an end but the beginning of a journey to ensure that our future generations are protected and sustained from the devastation of the impacts of climate change.

“It certainly has been a long and tardious journey, history has been made yet again, and this ruling has given us hope for the future as we continue to grapple with the realities of sea-level rise, earthquakes and frequency of cyclones on the home front,” ADG Kiloe said. 

The MSG will continue to engage in the process as mandated by Leaders in the recent MSG Summit in Suva in supporting Vanuatu and MSG Member states in the next phases of the process including at the UN & COP negotiations.

#TeamMSG 🇫🇯🇳🇨🇵🇬🇸🇧🇻🇺

#BluePacific

#climatejustice

#ICJAO

D-DAY AT THE ICJ – A DEFINING MOMENT FOR CLIMATE JUSTICE

2PORT VILA, VANUATU (23 July 2025): It is D-Day at the International Court of Justice where it will soon deliver a landmark ruling in the historic Advisory Opinion proceedings, on the obligation of States under International Law in respect to Climate Change.

This, at a crucial time when climate change has not only been declared by our Leaders as the single most existential threat facing the #BluePacific, but climate devastation is now even more frequent with floods, earthquakes, and cyclones among many more.

The Opinion will not only reshape expectations for both governments and businesses worldwide but clarify the scope of state responsibilities under international law, with potential knock-on effects for corporate liability, due diligence, and climate-related litigation.

Initiated by a group of students' assignment question at USP Vanuatu's Emalus campus, Vanuatu led a global coalition two years ago, to adopt a UN Resolution, requesting ICJ to clarify State obligations and legal consequences related to climate change. 

The move by these students eventually led to Vanuatu's ICJ initiative and gave rise to the formation of the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC). The MSG Secretariat was delighted to have PISFCC part of its delegation and accord it the privilege to address the Court through the MSG platform, to further amplify the Pacific's call for climate justice during the hearing in December 2024.

President of the PISFCC, Ms. Houniuhi captivated the Court with her powerful testimony of how the initiative started, and what the ICJ proceedings mean for the future generations, further reinforcing MSG’s submission on the impact of climate change on youth and children.

At the 51st Pacific Islands Leaders meeting in Suva, Fiji in 2022, Pacific Leaders welcomed progress on Vanuatu’s initiative and noted that while non-binding, an ICJAO “may change the course of current negotiations and boost commitments,” and call on the UNGA to adopt a resolution requesting such an opinion.

In late 2023 at subregional level, MSG Leaders during the Leaders’ Summit in Port Vila, Vanuatu, mandated the MSG Secretariat, through the Political, Security & Legal Affairs programme, to take part in the proceedings. 

The MSG’s submission focused on climate change and its nefarious impact on customs and traditions, adding value to the national submissions by MSG members and representing the collective interests of the Melanesian sub-region.

Last month in Suva, Fiji, MSG Leaders endorsed the Secretariat’s ongoing participation in the ICJ process, particularly in the implementation of the Advisory Opinion. 

Our team at the ICJ includes the Acting Director General, Ilan Kiloe and Acting Programme Manager, Political, Security & Legal Affairs, Brittien Yosef.

To follow the case today, please click on:

https://webtv.un.org/en

#TeamMSG 🇫🇯🇳🇨🇵🇬🇸🇧🇻🇺

#climatejustice

#ICJAO

Photo Courtesy: ICJ File

MSG, "THE POWERHOUSE OF THE SUBREGION"

SUVA, FIJI (18 July 2025): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) could be the powerhouse of the region as a platform to advance issues of national interest for Melanesia.

This was agreed at a recent discussion between the MSG Secretariat led by the Acting Director General, Ilan Kiloe, and Fiji’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Permanent Secretary, Dr Raijeli Taga.

PS Dr Taga said the MSG, being resource-rich in terms of population, land mass and natural resources can be very effective “if all of MSG’s constituent body meetings in arts & culture, trade, environment, sports and security, among others, are coordinated well.

“It (MSG) is already a powerhouse but we need to better plan and coordinate properly if we are to see issues from these meetings advanced into the PIFS system and elevated to a level where instructions can be made and actions taken,” she said.

Dr Taga stated, “there is a lot of responsibility on us to advance these initiatives further and use MSG to our advantage”.

“In doing so we can provide the opportunities for the other groups in the region and we must proceed to implement some of the outcomes by the Leaders.

“Fiji’s intent is not to go with the flow but to grow the MSG,” she added.

Acting Director General of the MSG Secretariat, Ilan Kiloe, firstly congratulated Fiji’s chairmanship, adding that he fully concurred with the directions which the Chair is ready to take. 

“Indeed, MSG is a strength in the Pacific and we must ensure that what we are doing fits into the ambitions of the wider Pacific,” ADG Kiloe said.  

He suggested that the MSG look at areas which it is able to influence and advance for instance climate change, since the MSG participated at the ICJ, amplifying the Pacific’s call for climate justice during the ICJAO proceedings on Climate Change.

ADG Kiloe said another area the MSG could take the lead on is Security, considering that Melanesia’s instability is dominated by ethnic conflicts and tribal wars, hence the need for a specifically designed strategy just for Melanesia.

The MSG Security Strategy, following the green light from Leaders last month, is expected to be endorsed at the upcoming MSG Police Minister’s Meeting this September.

The MSG Secretariat will also identify issues to update the Chair, prior to the upcoming Pacific Island Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara.

Caption: Fiji's Permanent Secretary Foreign Affairs, Dr Raijeli Taga & Acting Director General of the MSG Secretariat, Ilan Kiloe, with members of their respective teams.

MSG AT PACIFIC REGIONAL & NATIONAL SECURITY MEET

SUVA, FIJI (14 July 2025): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) is currently part of the Pacific Regional and National Security Conference at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, a three-day gathering of the region’s security experts, academic, political, business and civil society representatives, including regional and national officials. 

Organised by the Australian National University’s Pacific Security College, the conference was opened by Fiji’s Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka and Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa. 

Discussions as part of Pacific Peace, Security and Defence; Climate Security; and Partnerships, in support of the Ocean of Peace concept, included the need for more collaboration within the Blue Pacific, clarity in partnerships to best align support to Pacific priorities, good governance and mutual respect, among others.

The MSG Secretariat is represented by Acting Director General, Ilan Kiloe; Security Advisor, Ilaitia Caginavanua and Media & Communications Officer, Ana Tudrau-Tamani.

SOLOMON ISLANDS JUSTICE & LEGAL AFFAIRS MINISTRY REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR MSG SECRETARIAT

HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS (13 July 2025): The Acting Director General of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat, Ilan Kiloe, recently called on the Solomon Islands Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, George Ho’oau, in Honiara during a courtesy visit.

It was an opportunity to brief PS Ho’oau on the recent decisions by Leaders, in particular on legal and institutional issues which falls under his portfolio. 

This, following a courtesy visit to the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Karen Galokale, for briefings on peace and security matters.

The issues PS Ho’oau were briefed on included the Secretariat’s ongoing participation in the ICJ Climate Advisory Opinion Processes, the review of the Agreement Establishing the MSG and Membership guidelines, the process for the appointment of the Director General and institutional policies and regulations of the MSG Secretariat. 

The review of the institutional policies and development of new policies are aimed at strengthening the operations of the MSG Secretariat.

On the process for the appointment of the DG, PS Hoa’au was informed that the Leaders’ have approved for the TROIKA to convene a meeting to consider applications for the Director General and undertake the recruitment process, including the engagement of an Independent Consultant to facilitate future recruitments of the Director General.

The ADG also took the opportunity to update PS Hoa’au on security matters such as the MSG Security Strategy, the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) and the MSG Secretariat’s proposed collaboration with the Pacific Fusion Centre. 

PS Ho’oau congratulated ADG Kiloe on the work done by the Secretariat under his leadership, in its efforts to implement the mandates given by Leaders. 

He also reiterated his full support and that of the Solomon Islands Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, towards the work of the MSG Secretariat. 

ADG was accompanied by the MSG Secretariat’s Media and Communications Officer, Ana Tudrau-Tamani.

MSG CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN CCOPERATION WITH CHINA

PORT VILA, VANUATU (9 July 2025): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat continues to maintain cooperation and strengthened partnership with the People’s Republic of China.

This, following a successful meeting today between the Acting Director General of the MSG Secretariat, Ilan Kiloe and Counselor Mr. Gu Zihua, at the Chinese Embassy in Port Vila, Vanuatu. 

ADG Kiloe briefed the latter on the MSG Leaders’ recent directives from the 23rd Leaders’ Summit in Suva, with regards to the Haos Blong Melanesia concept.

As part of the discussion, Counsellor Gu Zihua reaffirmed China's commitment to supporting the Secretariat with the reconstruction of its building, which was damaged by the 17 December 2024 earthquake.

The discussions also explored broader avenues for potential cooperation between the MSG and the People’s Republic of China, on areas of mutual interest. 

The meeting concluded with Counsellor Gu proposing a future social gathering to foster better connection and mutual understanding between Secretariat staff and officials of the Embassy.

The ADG was accompanied by Richard Balkonan and Gosiana Malili of the Secretariat, while Counselor Gu was accompanied by Secretary Wei.

MSG CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN CCOPERATION WITH CHINA

PORT VILA, VANUATU (9 July 2025): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat continues to maintain cooperation and strengthened partnership with the People’s Republic of China.

This, following a successful meeting today between the Acting Director General of the MSG Secretariat, Ilan Kiloe and Counselor Mr. Gu Zihua, at the Chinese Embassy in Port Vila, Vanuatu. 

ADG Kiloe briefed the latter on the MSG Leaders’ recent directives from the 23rd Leaders’ Summit in Suva, with regards to the Haos Blong Melanesia concept.

As part of the discussion, Counsellor Gu Zihua reaffirmed China's commitment to supporting the Secretariat with the reconstruction of its building, which was damaged by the 17 December 2024 earthquake.

The discussions also explored broader avenues for potential cooperation between the MSG and the People’s Republic of China, on areas of mutual interest. 

The meeting concluded with Counsellor Gu proposing a future social gathering to foster better connection and mutual understanding between Secretariat staff and officials of the Embassy.

The ADG was accompanied by Richard Balkonan and Gosiana Malili of the Secretariat, while Counselor Gu was accompanied by Secretary Wei.

Prime Minister Marape: MSG Must Speak Boldly for West Papuan Cultural and Customary Rights

PNG Breaking News 

MEDIA RELEASE- 24TH JUNE 2025

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s support for open and respectful dialogue on West Papua, calling on Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) countries to continue advocating for cultural rights and human dignity of Melanesians within Indonesia without compromising national sovereignties.  

Speaking at the 23rd MSG Leaders’ Summit in Suva, Prime Minister Marape said MSG has a responsibility to protect kinship, identity, and customary rights of all Melanesians, including those living within sovereign states such as Indonesia.   

    “Sovereignty is a construct and we respect it. But our people’s land rights, cultural identity, and Melanesian heritage do not vanish across borders,” PM Marape said. “MSG must continue to advocate for the people of West Papua in a way that upholds dignity, while maintaining diplomatic respect for Indonesia.”

Prime Minister Marape welcomed the continued presence of Indonesia at the MSG dialogue table, noting that engagement itself is a sign of goodwill and maturity on all sides. He reaffirmed that PNG’s position is not about interfering in domestic matters, but about encouraging solutions that honour traditional land ownership and human rights within sovereign structures.

    “These are not confrontational discussions. They are cultural and humanitarian discussions, grounded in our shared Melanesian identity,” he said.

MSG Leaders have agreed to send a joint letter to the Government of Indonesia, expressing their collective position on West Papuan identity, customary land rights, and cultural autonomy.

Prime Minister Marape also pointed to the growing bilateral cooperation between PNG and Indonesia, including improved border access for trade, travel, and communication, and encouraged MSG countries to utilise PNG as a bridge for constructive engagement with Jakarta.

    “We have opened up the northern and southern border corridors with Indonesia. Our MSG brothers and sisters are welcome to use PNG as a channel for respectful engagement with Indonesia.”

He commended MSG Chair, Fijian Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, for enabling these difficult yet vital conversations.

    “This is the kind of mature and measured leadership that keeps MSG relevant, respectful, and rooted in our Melanesian values.”

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ACTING DG PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO SOLOMON ISLANDS PRIME MINISTER

PORT VILA, VANUATU (28 August 2024): The Acting Director General of the Melanesian Spearhead Group Secretariat, Ilan Kiloe, paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Jeremiah Manele, Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands during a recent tour to Honiara.

During the meeting, ADG Kiloe took the opportunity to brief the Prime Minister on the status of the MSG Secretariat building and its operations following the devastating 7.4 earthquake of December 17, 2024.

ADG Kiloe also briefed the Prime Minister on suitable proposed dates for the upcoming MSG Leader’s Summit and the status of MSG Membership contributions.

Hon. Jeremiah Manele expressed his appreciation to the Acting DG for the courtesy visit and reassured the Secretariat of his Government’s support. 

With respect to the upcoming MSG Leader’s Summit, the Hon. Prime Minister mentioned that appropriate dates would be towards the end of June to the 1st week of July.

As for the status of the MSG building, the Hon. PM expressed sympathy for staff who witnessed and experienced the disaster and further noted interest from donors on the construction of a new building.

In encouraging Members to contribute to its cost, the Hon. Prime Minister emphasised the importance of the Membership taking ownership. He added that with the current geopolitical interest at play in the region, it would be an opportune time for good cooperation with donors for the common good of Melanesia.

He also expressed delight with the concept of the House of Melanesia that would depict traditional designs from all the MSG member countries, therefore reflecting the true identity of Melanesia. PM Manele was also pleased to note that Solomon Islands was up to date with its annual contribution. 

The Hon. PM was pleased to learn about the Project Coordination Management Unit (PCMU), and encouraged that, such initiatives will enable the Secretariat to engage in more project proposals to attract funding for the organization and boost its visibility.

Furthermore, the move by the Acting DG to engage the MSG Secretariat with the wider UN agencies as well as the European Union, ACP, and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) organizations to promote the flagship of MSG in the international arena, was commended by PM Manele.

Caption: Hon. Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele with Acting DG, Ilan Kiloe and Acting Program Manager, Political, Security & Legal Affairs, Brittien Yosef.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA TO HOST 4th MSG PRIME MINISTER'S CUP TOURNAMENT

PORT VILA, VANUATU (9 April 2025): The fourth edition of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s Cup will be held in Port Moresby from 4 - 18 October 2025, following the signing of a Host Agreement between the MSG and the Government of Papua New Guinea, through the PNG Sports Foundation today.

This followed the end of day one of the MSG Sports Stakeholder Consultation on the MSG Prime Ministers Cup in Port Vila, Vanuatu this afternoon.

The Agreement will now commit the Government of PNG’s budgetary support in preparation for the hosting of the 4th Edition of the MSG PM’s Cup.

In his opening remarks, the MSG Chair and Sports Minister Hon. MP Job Sam Andy, Minister of Justice, Youth and Community Services, welcomed the delegation and officials from the PNG Sports Foundation and commended the 2025 theme of the MSG PM’s Cup - “Supporting a healthy Melanesia through Sports”.

The tournament he said, is one of the flagship events of the MSG and a standing mandate by the MSG Leaders for Members to host it on a rotational basis.

“Football is connected to the livelihoods and future of the people of Melanesia, a sport that not only builds our nations’ pride and identity but has also put the region on the world map.”

He added it is imperative that sports is connected to the development of Melanesia’s youth as a mechanism for dealing with social issues to improve their status.

Acting Director General of the MSG Secretariat, Ilan Kiloe, in his remarks stated that the Sports programme has and will continue to help the MSG chart its course.

“The success of this Consultation proves yet again the ongoing commitments of the Membership for youth and sports development, and we will continue to celebrate our achievements as we look forward to the milestones through the vision of our Leaders,” he said.

“Sports is an important programme of the MSG Secretariat and for the MSG, Sports including Arts and Culture acts as a glue that binds everyone together despite our diverse political, cultural and religious views,” Mr Kiloe added.

Vanuatu was the proud host of the inaugural MSG PM’s Cup in September 2022 in Port Vila when PNG emerged as winner. New Caledonia hosted the 2nd Edition in October 2023 which saw Solomon Islands coming out victorious while the 3rd Edition was hosted in the Solomon Islands in December 2024 which saw PNG winning for the second time. Fiji will host the tournament's 5th Edition in 2026.

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT - HAUS KRAI FOR THE LATE RT. HON. SIR JULIUS CHAN GCL, GCMG, KBE, PC, MP

PORT VILA, VANUATU (3 February 2025): To show our solidarity with the people and Government of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, on the passing of the late Rt. Hon. Sir Julius Chan GCL, GCMG, KBE, PC, MP on Monday the 30th of January 2025, the MSG Secretariat, in collaboration with the Vanuatu Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation & External Trade, will be hosting the signing of the condolence book at the Vanuatu Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation & External Trade in Port Vila, Vanuatu.

The late Rt Honorable Sir Julius Chan, with late Father Walter Hadye Lini and late Sir Peter Kenilorea, contributed immensely to the collective visions that enabled the creation and transformation of the Melanesian Spearhead Group as a formidable sub-regional bloc with shared political, economic, cultural, and social visions. 

The late Rt Honourable Sir Julius Chan also contributed to Vanuatu’s independence when he deployed the PNG Kumul Forces to assist quell the Santo Rebellion. Papua New Guinea's intervention in Vanuatu, at the request of Vanuatu’s Founding Prime Minister Fr. Walter Hadye Lini, demonstrated Melanesian solidarity and capacity to assist each other in the face of neo-colonialist manipulation. This event provided the fertile grounds for the initial thoughts on regional security cooperation. 

As part of the commemoration, the official opening of the “Haus Krai” will be at 9am on Tuesday the 4th of February at the MOFA 

Farea, Independence Park, Port Vila, 

The signing of the condolence book will be held from the 4th to the 6th of February 2024 and it will be open for Government, CSOs and the general public.

During this time, the MSG Secretariat will, show visual presentations of the late Sir Julius Chan for those who may wish to know more about the history of the Founding Father of MSG, Former Prime Minister and longest serving Member of Parliament of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea. 

Below is the official program for the commemoration.

Thank you and God Bless.

Ilan Kiloe

Acting Director General

SECURITY STRATEGY, ATROCITY PREVENTION & THE RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT WORKSHOP

PORT VILA, VANUATU (2 October 2024): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) is happy to support efforts by the Asia Pacific Centre for the Responsibility to Protect (APR2P) to ensure that MSG countries, and others in the region, implement the commitments made to address mass atrocities such as genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity.

In his opening remarks at the MSG R2P Workshop, Director General of the MSG Secretariat, Leonard Louma, warned of the danger of thinking that these enumerated mass atrocities do not occur in our part of the world. He acknowledged that this is due largely to our notions being framed by what transpired in Kampuchea under Pol Pot, Kosovo and Rwanda. This he said, is a fallacy and provides a false sense of innocence to our governments and encourages in them a nefarious attitude of complacency.

The Director General urged participants to give serious consideration to this subject matter and the need to look at MSG countries’ national policies, regulations, and laws to accommodate state commitments on atrocity prevention and Responsibility to Protect (R2P). 

He noted that Governments have an inherent obligation to protect the people they govern in their nation states and must ensure their welfare is taken care of and their dignity as human beings protected. 

“At the risk of oversimplifying the notion of atrocity, we would do well to think of it as a cruel act or mistreatment that injures the dignity of a human being. Suffering from hunger, affliction with NCDs, lack of basic drugs in our medical and health facilities, abuse in the treatment of our inmates in our prisons, etc. Atrocity prevention and taking heed of, and acting on, early warning signals is critical.”

“Once we start thinking of atrocities in the sense of lack of security then we will get our governments and ourselves to approach it in a way that our people deserve to be treated,” DG Louma commented.

The Director General also clarified that the MSG is not averse to collective security approaches aimed at addressing the region’s security concerns, despite the fact that it is sometimes portrayed as being in opposition.

“In our efforts to properly frame collaboration in the security space, explore synergies between new initiatives and existing initiatives, and ensure necessary guard rails are considered in any security arrangement, we are often portrayed as being against a collective security initiative. Far from it.”

DG Louma noted the ongoing efforts in collective security and expressed appreciation for the Australian Government’s collaboration with the MSG Secretariat on many matters of mutual interest.

The newly-appointed Australian High Commissioner to Vanuatu, H.E Max Willis, acknowledged the MSG and the APR2P for co-facilitating the Workshop and stated that Australia was happy to be associated with the funding of the Workshop.

The training explored how governments in the region currently accommodate atrocity prevention in policy and practice, and how they can work at the national and regional levels to better implement their R2P commitments.

MSG LEADERS CONVERGED FOR CAUCUS MEETING AHEAD OF 53rd PIFLM

PORT VILA, VANUATU (2 September 2024): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders' Caucus was successfully convened in Nukua’Alofa, Tonga, within the margins of the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting to develop joint positions on issues of specific relevance and of particular concern to the Group.

In his opening remarks, the MSG Chair and Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Hon. Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas, welcomed and thanked his colleague MSG Leaders for availing themselves to participate in the Caucus. 

He emphasised that side meetings as such, on the margins of the PIF meetings, provide valuable opportunities to discuss issues of specific interest to the MSG Group, enabling the development of common approaches and positions to take to the PIF. 

“Collectively we can prosecute and advance our interests and issues more effectively when we are seated at the PIF table. As we are all aware, PIF is made up of diverse groups of members whose views on issues, that we want to push, are often not the same as ours. Together we are stronger,” he stated. 

Referring to the caucus agenda, the Chair said that while many issues will be brought up for discussions at the PIF, some of them are specific to the MSG alone, like New Caledonia for instance, a foundational issue for the MSG. 

“No other grouping in the PIF has invested so much time, effort and resources on this issue than the MSG. MSG must continue to be in the driver’s seat on this issue as the effected indigenous people, the non-self-governing peoples of that non-self-governing territory are the KANAKS, and they are members of the MSG,” he stated. 

“The Ocean of Peace is an initiative of one of our members, Fiji, and we need to ensure that we all collectively support it at the PIF. The Ocean of Peace concept builds on the Efate Declaration on Mutual Respect, Responsibility, Cooperation, and Amity (The Efate Declaration on Security) that we signed on 24 August 2023. In many respects, the Udaune Declaration on Climate Change that we adopted last year also complements the broad concept captured in the Ocean of Peace initiative,” the Chair commented. 

On the Pacific Policing Initiative (PPI), the Chair said that while it is another important initiative that is going to be discussed at the PIF meetings, this collective approach to policing is ironically not a new concept to the MSG. 

“We have been pushing for self-help collective policing agreement/arrangements for a long time. Our 2016 MSG Security Strategy contains this, our 2013 MOA to Enhance Police Cooperation calls for this and the 2015 Framework Agreement for the MSG Formed Police Unit tries to operationalize the idea of collective approach to policing. 

“I make these points to remind us that we need to make sure that this PPI is framed to fit our purposes and not developed to suit the geo-strategic interests and geo-strategic denial security postures of our big partners,” he said.

As well, the Chair reiterated the importance of the welfare of the interests of Melanesians in West Papua and the other Papuan Provinces in Indonesia, as an ongoing concern for the peoples of the region. 

“In this regard, the MSG Leaders Dialogue with the President of Indonesia is a project of great importance that must be pursued,” he added. 

The Director General of the MSG Secretariat, Leonard Louma, in his introductory remarks provided further clarification on the agenda items including highlighting some of the salient features and background on the issues.  

Given the time constraints, the MSG Chair sought the understanding of the Leaders to amend the provisional agenda so more focus could be spent on the New Caledonia issue, which would entail more time to be given to the FLNKS to provide a comprehensive brief on the New Caledonia dossier to the MSG Leaders.  

The Chair suggested that other issues on the provisional agenda could be dealt with in more detail in the next MSG Leaders’ Summit proper.

MEMBER OF EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, HON. DAVID MCALLISTER VISITS MSG SECRETARIAT

PORT VILA, VANUATU (12 August 2024): The Director General of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat, Leonard Louma, received a courtesy visit from the Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Relations of the European Parliament, Hon. David McAllister on Thursday 8 August 2024.

The Chairman was keen to know more about the MSG, its specific role and focus activities in pursuit of its Members’ interests, and how it fits in the regional landscape with the different regional organisations, especially in relation to the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).

A background brief was provided by DG Louma on MSG and its activities, especially its focus areas on youth and gender empowerment within the geographical confines of its five members of Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia through the FLNKS.

DG Louma took the opportunity to emphasise the importance that MSG countries place in their relations with the European Union members and thanked the Chairman for the assistance that the European Union has provided to the MSG Secretariat, through the PIF, in particular the IMPACT Project and SPIRIT Project under the EDF 11 Pacific Regional Integration Support Program.

DG Louma indicated that the MSG Secretariat was now examining the Samoa Agreement (successor to the Cotonou Agreement) to see where and how MSG can access development assistance for its activities directly from Brussels.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA DELEGATION IN VANUATU FOR TOK SORI CEREMONY RECEIVED BY MSG SECRETARIAT

PORT VILA, VANUATU (5 August 2024): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat received a Papua New Guinea delegation on Thursday, 1 August led by Hon. Powes Parkop, Governor of the National Capital District (NCD) who attended Vanuatu’s 44th Independence Anniversary celebrations in Port Vila.

The delegation comprised Hon. Lohia Boe Samuel, Member for Port Moresby North West; Hon. Keith Iduhu, Member for Central Hiri; and Grand Chief Brigadier Ted Ramu Diro, Former Commander of the PNG Defence Force.

In welcoming them to the Secretariat, Director General, Leonard Louma assured them of the deep pride and honour attached to their visit to the Secretariat.

“At the very outset, let me admit that it is not lost on us here at the Secretariat that our creation as an organization is very much the product of what transpired 44 years ago in Santo when Papua New Guinea answered the plea for assistance from a fledging young Melanesian country aspiring to take its place as an independent nation in the Pacific and indeed the world.

“In more ways than one, MSG as an organization was born from that crucible of conflict in Santo. That readiness and willingness of a fellow MSG country, that was at that stage no more than 5 years old itself, as an independent nation, took the bold step to intervene, when others older than itself, were not able to respond in the affirmative, to the request for help from Vanuatu.” DG Louma stated.

He said the events in Santo set off a paradigm shift in the way our Leaders thought of cooperation amongst and between themselves. 

The experience he said, convinced them that cooperation amongst and between themselves was possible despite their myriads of challenges and very limited resources.

Soon after the successful intervention in Santo, then PNG Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan invited the first Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Fr Walter Lini, to join him on the aircraft to the Solomon Islands to talk with then Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Sir Peter Kenilorea, about how they might cooperate and collaborate with each other in their quest to address the different development challenges that their countries were facing.

“The seeds of MSG cooperation were sewn there and then. Convinced of the need to have joint approaches and positions on shared challenges and interests, Leaders of Vanuatu, PNG, Solomon Islands and the FLNKS external affairs representative, Yanne Celene Uregei, met informally in Goroka in 1986 and agreed to formalize the organization and coined the name “Melanesian Spearhead Group” as the name of our Organisation,” DG Louma said. 

Two years later in 1988, the Agreed Principles of Cooperation between the Independent States of Melanesia was signed in Port Vila to formally establish the MSG Group.

The Secretariat also gifted the delegation with a pig, kava and mats for the Tok Sori ceremony at the Saralana Park later on Friday afternoon, for the unfortunate loss of life during the Santo operation caused by the Kumul Force.

“This magnanimous act will have very deep and profound significance. It will heal wounds suffered from the conflict, it will build bridges destroyed as a consequence of that conflict, it will restore family ties shattered by the conflict, and it will reaffirm PNG’s noble intentions in agreeing to assist Vanuatu with its request – to help Vanuatu and its people find their feet as an independent nation and not to deliberately bring harm to its citizens,” DG Louma added.

Grand Chief Brigadier Ted Ramu Diro, Former Commander of the PNGDF who led the Kumul Force to stop the Santo rebellion in 1980, was honored with a Distinction Medal by the President of Vanuatu, His Excellence Nikenike Vurobaravu at the State House on Independence Day.