MAJURO, MARSHALL ISLANDS — February 13, 2026 — H.E. President Hilda C. Heine received a courtesy visit from Dr. Paula Vivili, Director-General of the Pacific Community (SPC), reaffirming the strong partnership between the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) and SPC.
President Heine conveyed warm greetings of Iakwe on behalf of the people and Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and acknowledged the Director-General’s deep roots in the region and longstanding leadership within SPC, underscoring his commitment to regional development, multilateral cooperation, and institutional continuity.
During their meeting, discussions focused on key national priorities including climate change, public health, data systems, inclusive development, and the ongoing impacts of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands.
President Heine emphasized that climate change is a daily reality for the Marshall Islands, affecting freshwater supplies, coastlines, homes, and livelihoods. She highlighted the importance of SPC’s scientific and technical support in strengthening national planning and helping the RMI advocate for climate justice and greater access to adaptation financing tailored to atoll nations.
Health was also a major topic of discussion. President Heine noted the continued challenges posed by non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart disease and welcomed SPC’s support in strengthening community-level health services and building more resilient, island-based health systems. She also underscored the need for stronger coordination among regional partners and improved national data systems to support real-time decision-making and ongoing census efforts across outer islands.
President Heine further reaffirmed the importance of sustained technical cooperation to monitor and address the environmental impacts of nuclear testing, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of affected communities.
The meeting concluded with the signing of the Republic of the Marshall Islands–Pacific Community (RMI–SPC) Country Plan 2026–2030. The Country Plan outlines shared priorities and coordinated actions over the next five years and aligns with the RMI’s National Strategic Plan 2020–2030 and the Agenda 2030. The Plan brings together SPC’s full range of scientific and technical expertise in support of the RMI’s long-term resilience, prosperity, and cultural integrity.
President Heine thanked Director-General Vivili and his team for their partnership and reaffirmed the Marshall Islands’ commitment to working closely with SPC to advance shared regional priorities and ensure support to Marshallese communities.
