30 Sep 2008

Pacific countries worrying about losing LDC status

4:29 pm on 30 September 2008

Three Pacific Islands countries have called on the United Nations to urgently review the criteria for classifying some nations as least developed countries.

Early next year, 3 Pacific countries, Vanuatu, Kiribati, and Tuvalu will be considered for graduation, from LDC status, a move that could see them missing out on vital development funding.

Tuvalu's Prime Minister Apisai Ielemia, says the small island states' unique vulnerability doesn't get enough recognition in that consideration.

"Our economic and environmental vulnerablity cannot be ignored. The enormous threat of more severe weather events and sea level rise hangs over us like a large storm cloud. This threat hinders investment in our country, and potentially puts into question our very survival."

Apisai Ielemia, Tuvalu's Prime Minister