The greatest threat to the traditional way of life across the Pacific region, is climate change, says Simona Marinescu, UN Resident Coordinator for the 28 islands that make up Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau.

In an interview with UN News, ahead of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s visit to the region this weekend, she says it’s vital to make sure that funding continues to help mitigate the worst effects of global warming, while also ensuring sustainable development.

Paulina Greer spoke to Ms. Marinescu, on a recent visit to UN Headquarters in New York.