The Pacific Islands Forum leaders summit has begun in Auckland.
Pacific leaders were welcomed at the opening ceremony this morning.
Megan Whelan reports.
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The Forum secretary general, Tuiloma Neroni Slade, welcome leaders and reminding them of the principals the Forum was founded under 40 years ago, he said there is much less to do to realise the vision of a peaceful, secure and prosperous Pacific. The New Zealand prime minister, the incoming Forum chair, welcomed the UN secretary general, Ban Ki Moon and the Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma, saying this week, including the Rugby World Cup which kicks off on Friday is a chance to showcase the Pacific region. Leaders will continue their meetings this morning where they will discuss climate change, regional trade issues, development issues and regional security issues.
