Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill has expressed concern for the people of Fiji following the destruction caused by Cyclone Winston over the weekend.
And he's warned all countries in the Pacific to prepare for more extreme weather due to climate change.
He also extended an offer to help Fiji recover from the disaster.
“The category five cyclone Winston, the worst ever experienced in Fiji, is sadly another example of the greatest threat to Pacific Island nations,” O’Neill said.
He said while the region faces pressure from global economic changes, nothing is more threatening to Pacific Island nations than extreme weather exacerbated by climate change.
“This threat is real, and we are seeing the destruction brought about by storms of unprecedented magnitude, as well as further extremes of drought and heat waves," he said.
He extended his condolences to communities in Fiji who lost lives, sustained injuries and had seen property destruction.
“Papua New Guinea stands with our Pacific Brothers and Sisters in Fiji and we are ready to help where we can. Though our diplomatic channels we will identify where support can be extended,” he added
As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, he has called on all Pacific Island Nations to place increased focus on preparedness for extreme weather, while working with global partners to limit emissions that will exacerbate the problem in the future.
“Serious tropical storms in Fiji this year, and in Vanuatu, Tuvalu and Papua New Guinea, as well droughts in our region are all alarm bells that we must listen to before these elements rip our communities apart," O’Neill said.
He hopes climate change will continue to be an issue of great concern at the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting this year, and he would further carry the views of Pacific Leaders to the APEC Summit in Peru.