It is with great sadness that the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and the Pacific Islands Forum family, announces the passing away of the Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, Mr Greg Urwin in Apia, Samoa on the night of Saturday 9th August.
Mr Urwin passed away after being ill for the past eight months. He was 62.He began his first three-year term as Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in February 2004 and was reappointed for another three-year term in October 2006.
The Acting Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, Mr Feleti Teo has informed the Chairman of the Pacific Islands Forum and Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. Feleti Sevele and other Forum Leaders of the great loss to the region.
"The Pacific has lost a leader who had the region at heart. He was a very humble person and very sensitive to many cultures that make up the membership of the Pacific Islands Forum family," says Mr Teo
"During his time as the Secretary General, he was at the forefront of the implementation of the Pacific Plan since endorsed by Forum Leaders in 2005. He advocated the needs of the Smaller Island States within the Forum and started a process for recognitions of non-government organizations within the activities of the Forum."
Arrangements are underway for a memorial service to be held in Suva, Fiji while the funeral service will be held later in the week in Apia.