Rima Browne Explores the US Leadership Programme on behalf of the Cook Islands
In a bid to bolster sustainable development and explore collaboration opportunities, representatives from the Cook Islands have actively participated in a recent International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP) focused on "Sustainability and Economic Development in the Blue Economy."
Rima Browne, from the Seabed Minerals Authority and Alanna Smith, from Te Ipukarea Society proudly represented the Cook Islands in a Blue Economy cohort made up of other Pacific leaders from Samoa, Vanuatu, Palau, Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand. The leaders, hailing from government and civil society sectors, covered a wide range of expertise, such as maritime affairs, climate resilience, fisheries management, and marine biodiversity and studies.
Throughout the program, Browne engaged in a series of productive meetings and site visits across seven different cities, where the cohort interacted with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, research institutes, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders.
Notable visits included institutions like NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the World Bank Group, the Department of the Interior, Jaxport, Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve, Schiller Coastal Studies, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute. These interactions provided invaluable insights into the diverse ways in which each entity contributes to or operates within the Blue Economy framework.
“For the Cook Islands, this experience offers a unique opportunity to gain knowledge about best practices and innovative approaches employed by the different US states in harnessing the potential of their marine resources sustainably,” says Browne.
Furthermore, the IVLP serves as a platform for the Pacific leaders to showcase their respective state initiatives and accomplishments in the Blue Economy space.
Browne is hopeful that by sharing their endeavours with fellow participants and engaging in discussions about potential collaborations, we can foster meaningful partnerships and exchange valuable learnings with other countries.
As the Cook Islands continue to prioritize sustainable development and ocean conservation, active participation in international programmes like the IVLP underscores commitment to seeking innovative solutions and forging partnerships that will benefit not only our nation but also the broader Pacific region and beyond.
Source by: Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority