A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which was signed between the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and L’Agence Francaise pour la Biodiversité (AFB) formally recognised the intent of SPREP and AFB to work together on environmental issues, particularly in the fields of conservation and management of biodiversity. 

 It includes collaborating on marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystem-related programmes and projects in French Pacific territories and the wider Pacific region. 

The main objective of the agreement is to develop a partnership between the two organisations that will enhance the conservation and management of biodiversity and ecosystems, climate change resilience, as well as funding mechanisms for studies dedicated to environmental issues in the Pacific region. 

It also aims to develop and implement programmes and projects as appropriate to achieve these objectives, and collaborate on, participate in and support special events at global and regional levels relating to the conservation and management of biodiversity. 

Collaborative activities listed out in the MOU include the consultation of each Party as appropriate on environmental matters of mutual concern, the exchange of information on development and current activities in relation to the environment, and to extend to each other standing invitations to be represented as observers at appropriate meetings. 

Also listed is the collaboration on the implementation of global and regional priorities and the collaboration and support for capacity-building activities in relation to the environment with Pacific island countries and territories in particular with the French territories.

The MOU, which is valid for a period of five years, was signed by Mr Kosi Latu and Mr Christophe Aubel, Director General of AFB.