KIRIBATI has handed over the chair of the Central Pacific Shipping Commission to Tuvalu after an annual general meeting on Buataritari.

Tuvalu Transport Secretary Simalua Enele Taliu took over leadership from his Kiribati counterpart, Alexander Teabo.

Taliu thanked Kiribati for hosting the meeting and acknowledged the people of Butaritari for their hospitality.

He reaffirmed Tuvalu’s commitment to strengthening regional shipping cooperation, highlighting the importance of reliable shipping services for small island countries facing economic and geographical challenges due to their size and isolation.

Tuvalu will support the meeting’s outcomes and acknowledged the contributions of shipping operators in addressing regional transport challenges.

Tuvalu will host the 13th CPSC Annual General Meeting next year.