SUVA - Leaders from the Pacific Island countries started gathering in Tonga for the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting, which will officially take place from Aug 26 to Aug 30.

The PIF leaders meet annually to develop collective responses to regional issues and deliver their vision for a resilient Pacific region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion, and prosperity.

Tonga Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni said the leaders will discuss policies that will ultimately benefit people in the region, reported Fiji Broadcasting Corporation on Thursday.

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Sovaleni added that the gathering will give the leaders an opportunity to address challenges for the Blue Pacific Continent and foster cooperation in pursuing shared goals.