A Closer Look: Somare the Diplomat

After half a century of politics and Pacific diplomacy, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare has left an indelible mark on regional policy. It will be a void difficult to fill in the near future. For the Pacific, leaders like Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara and Sir Michael Somare laid the foundations for a stronger Pacific voice. In the Melanesian Spearhead Group, Sir Michael advocated for the inclusion of West Papua as a Melanesian community in the Pacific Island Forum and the decolonization of New Caledonia. While he maintained warm relations with Australia as an important regional brother, he fought for sovereignty and a strong identity. Scott Waide brings you this Sunday's A CLOSER LOOK.