Preparatory meeting for the United Nations Conference to Support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development Discussion on the themes for the partnership dialogues Statement by H.E. Jane Chigiyal Permanent Representative On behalf of the Pacific Islands Forum New York, 15 February 2017

Co-facilitator, good morning,

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Pacific Islands Forum members. I would like to congratulate you on assuming the important role of facilitating our discussions on the selection of themes for the seven Partnership Dialogues, and on the elements for the “Call for Action”. We thank the Secretary-General for the preparation of the background note which sets the stage for our discussions today.

On the seven proposed themes, we are mindful that they should be agreed at the earliest possibility to allow the Secretariat to prepare the various concept papers in support of our discussions. Our group thinks that the seven themes are well crafted and relevant to the 10 targets under SDG 14. Furthermore, they provide a good way to discuss partnerships that are targeted to support the implementation of SDG14. For these reasons, we are supportive of the themes as proposed.

Co-facilitators,

We fully support the upcoming Conference and look forward to the broadest possible participation by all relevant stakeholders. Only collectively, can we fully achieve SDG14. We see merit in a cycle of Triennial Conferences to maintain momentum and follow up. We pledge our full support to you Co-facilitators.

Thank you.