Former Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat Greg Urwin has passed away in Samoa after a long illness.

He began his first three-year term as Secretary General in February 2004 and was reappointed to another three year term in October 2006 being at the forefront of the implementation of the Pacific Plan since endorsed by Forum Leaders in 2005.

Acting General Secretary of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat Feleti Teo said the Pacific has lost a leader who had the region at heart adding he was a very humble person and very sensitive to many cultures that make up the membership of the Pacific Islands Forum family.

Arrangements are underway for a memorial service to be held in Suva while the funeral service will be held later in the week in Apia.