24 Apr 2007

Pacific energy officials holding talks in Cook Islands

9:20 am on 24 April 2007

More than 50 energy officials from around the Pacific will gather in the Cook Islands this week, to discuss the impact of rising fuel costs and other energy security challenges currently facing the region.

Hosted by the Cook Islands' Government, the two-day meeting will examine the effect of high oil prices on countries and detail national and regional energy sector activities, aimed at tackling fuel concerns.

The Director of the Pacific Islands Applied Geoscience Commission (SOPAC), Cristelle Pratt, said although many countries in the Pacific have unique cultural, language and political structures, many share similar economic and resource challenges, including energy needs and restrictions.

She says working together and sharing information is absolutely critical for Pacific Island Countries, and this gathering of senior energy officials, will provide an opportunity to forge smart energy solutions for people in the Pacific.