The Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, the Cook Islands Prime Minister, Henry Puna, says the needs of the people at the grass roots must be articulated by the region's leaders.
He says this should be reflected in a more dynamic Pacific Plan - the region's scheme for greater unity.
Mr Puna, giving the annual Forum Leader's Lecture last night in Suva said he expects next year's review of the Plan will reflect this need for improved integration.
He says a more dynamic Plan should provide the guidance to tackle the Pacific's problems.
"The forthcoming review ought to strengthen our capability of responding to demands placed upon it. After all we need a dependable way of keeping our finger on the pulse of this living framework so that it remains responsive to our needs and keeps that sense of optimism alive at all times."
The Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, the Cook Islands Prime Minister, Henry Puna.
