During the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Solutions Forum from 30 -31 August 2021, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Director-General QU Dongyu called upon SIDS to promote innovation and digitalisation to accelerate the achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs). QU called the SID Forum 'an example of how innovation and digitalization bring opportunities in the face of challenges.' He further stressed on the role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) to support more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems. During the event, the SIDS Solutions Platform was kicked off to help in exchanging responses and innovations locally and globally. The hosting country Fiji Prime Minister Josaia V. Bainimarama said: 'advances in digital innovation have seen the vast oceans that separate us give way to vast possibilities. Alone, we are small islands. Together, we are one connected continent bound by a spirit of innovative resilience. Our 39 states, from the South Pacific, to the Caribbean, to the Indian Ocean, are home to incredible minds, cutting edge innovation, and deep traditional knowledge.'