Tuvalu used a two-day visit by leaders taking part in Fiji’s Pre-COP to show the climate vulnerabilities of the small island nation, taking the delegation to the Funafuti Causeway, one of the island’s narrowest points.
The visit was designed to give leaders an opportunity to see firsthand the realities facing Tuvalu on the frontline of climate change, as well as the country’s efforts to build resilience and develop practical solutions.
Foreign Affairs, Labour and Trade Minister Paulson Panapa welcomed the leaders on arrival. They were then received with a parade by the Tuvalu Police Service and a traditional welcoming chant performed by students from SDA Primary School and Nauti Primary School.
Prime Minister Feleti P. Teo later welcomed the delegation, which watched a local cultural performance by the Funafuti island community.
The leaders visited David’s Drill, a historic site in Funafuti. Students from Fetuvalu Secondary School waved to the delegation as it passed their school on the way to the causeway, where Tuvalu’s limited land area is particularly evident.
Teo and Climate Change and Environment Minister Maina Vakafua Talia said the Leaders’ Segment gave visiting leaders an opportunity to see Tuvalu’s vulnerabilities firsthand and witness the country’s work to build resilience.
“From Tuvalu’s frontline to the Pre-COP discussions in Fiji and the road to COP31, Tuvalu’s message is clear: the realities facing our islands must be seen, heard and reflected in meaningful action.”
