4 September 2014,  Apia, Samoa - A long standing relationship between Conservation International (CI) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) was strengthened during the 3rd United Nations Conference on Small Island Developing States at the launch of the Regional Framework for Nature Conservation and Protected Areas in the Pacific Islands Region 2014 - 2020.

Over the past 10 years the SPREP-CI partnership has included collaboration on identifying and mapping Key Biodiversity Areas, undertaking Rapid Biological Assessments (BIORAPs) in Samoa and Nauru, working together to develop and promote the Oceanscape Framework, and implementing the CEPF Polynesia-Micronesia Biodiversity Hotspot programme.

"We believe in SPREP and that's why we are signing another MoU," said Ms. Sue Taei Miller of Conservation International.

"Since the first MoU, CI underwent change management with a new mission that focuses on conservation of natural capital, and on addressing issues of sustainable production and fostering good governance measures, which fit perfectly with the values of SPREP and its fellow Pacific regional agencies."

CI’s recent shift to a broader sustainable development focus, aligns with SRPEPs mandate, and brings the two organisations even closer together.  CI will be a key partner in the implementation of the new regional Framework for Nature Conservation and Protected Areas which is assisting Pacific island countries achieve the Aichi Targets of the Convention of Biological Diversity.

"It is a pleasure to enhance our relationship with Conservation International, working together we can achieve so much more for our Pacific islands and we look forward to the outcomes of this MoU," said Mr. David Sheppard, Director-General of SPREP.

Together SPREP and CI will continue to support implementation of the Oceanscape Framework and the new Ocean Alliance.  Both organisations also have common interests in conservation of migratory species, especially marine species.