OREANDA-NEWS. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Government of Fiji will co-host a high-level Dialogue in Nadi on June 25, 2015. The Dialogue “Enhancing Macroeconomic Resilience to Natural Disasters in the Pacific Islands” will build on previous conferences held in Samoa and Vanuatu and recent IMF analytical work on this topic. It will bring together leading policymakers from 13 Pacific Island nations, as well as representatives from regional development partners, international financial organizations and think tanks.

“I look forward to visiting Fiji to continue the constructive dialogue we have with the authorities of the Pacific countries on this important topic,” said Changyong Rhee, IMF Director of the Asia and Pacific Department. “The recent devastation in Vanuatu has reminded us of the vulnerability of the small states of the Pacific to natural disasters and climate change. But we believe that good policies reinforced by capacity building, and financial support, can greatly enhance the country’s resilience and capacity to respond to natural disasters. The IMF can help in this respect in strong partnership with the Pacific island authorities and other development partners. The conference will provide a unique opportunity to share experiences and best practices, and learn from each other on how to work together and find innovative solutions to tackle a common problem,” he added.

The high-level event will be opened by Hon. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, Minister of Finance of Fiji.