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The Kingdom of Tonga has previously indicated to SPREP that specialised short term training in reef ecology and the development of coral reef survey and monitoring skills is a priority for their country (Thistlethwaite et al. 1993, SPREP 1995, SPREP 1996). In recognition of the ongoing need for regional capacity building in coral reef survey and monitoring techniques, and to accommodate the particular requests of the Kingdom of Tonga. SPREP sought and received funding from AusAID to run a sub-regional course in Vava'u. Kingdom of Tonga. SPREP again requested that scientists from the Australian Institute of Marine Science run the course.

The preparation of the Work Progrannne and Budget reflects the requirements of SPREP's Financial Regulations, the programme focus and priorities set out in the 2001-2004 Action Plan and the organisation structure set out in the 2001-2005 Corporate Plan approved by the SPREP Meeting last year.

The conservation values and biodiversity of Pohnpei's forests are perhaps as important as their hydrological buffering function. A combination of strong traditional respect for the upland forest, heavy human depopulation during the last century, and relatively difficult access to inland areas have spared the upland forests of Pohnpci Island from much of the disturbance and destruction that has occurred in the island's lowlands and on other Micronesian islands. These factors, along with the relative age and isolation of the island make the flora of Pohnpei's upland forests some of the most diverse in Micronesia, with a high level of endemicity.

Coral reefs are one of the most productive and biologically diverse of all marine ecosystems. They are a valuable resource for tropical coastal communities providing social and cultural benefits as well as substantial commercial benefits through industries such as fisheries, tourism and recreation. The importance of coral reefs is recognised by IUCN in their World Conservation Strategy (1980) in which reefs are identified as one of the essential ecological processes and life support systems necessary for human survival and sustainable development.

The Secretariat’s approved work programme and budget (WP&B) for 2006 was prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Financial Regulations and is expressed in USD.

In accordance with the “Rules of Procedure of the SPREP Meeting” (Rules 8.1 and 8.2), where a Meeting is hosted by the Secretariat, the Chair shall rotate alphabetically. Where a Meeting is not hosted by the Secretariat, the Chair shall be provided by the host country.