The 6th Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers Meeting took place in Seoul from December 8 to 9, marking a significant gathering where Foreign Ministers reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing collaboration under the banner “Partnerships for a Resilient, Peaceful, and Prosperous Pacific.” This meeting was notable as it included all members of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), emblematic of the One Blue Pacific Principles that emphasize unity and solidarity, as highlighted in the Blue Pacific Principles for Dialogue and Engagement and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Co-chaired by South Korea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hyun Cho, and Solomon Islands’ Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter Shanel Agovaka, the biennial discussions were aimed at fortifying political discourse and partnerships in the region. A PIF Secretariat delegation led by Secretary General Baron Divavesi Waqa provided valuable support to the ministerial representations from participating nations.
The meeting was attended by notable figures such as Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala of Tonga, New Caledonia’s President Alcide Ponga, Niue’s Prime Minister Dalton Talelagi, and Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo. At the conclusion of the meeting, a joint statement was issued that celebrated the growing relationship between Korea and the PIF, which includes a commitment to the 2050 Strategy and emphasizes inclusive development, trade, investment, and regional solidarity.
In his opening remarks, Minister Agovaka stressed the partnership’s foundation on shared values and dedication to the welfare of the peoples in both regions. He emphasized that the alignment of their partnership with Pacific-led initiatives reinforces their commitment to preserving oceanic resources and ensuring regional stability. Minister Cho Hyun echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of solidarity within the Pacific Islands Forum to guide Korea’s partnership with Pacific nations.
Korea reaffirmed its recognition of the PIF as the region’s principal political entity, acknowledging achievements from the 54th PIF Leaders’ Meeting held in Honiara earlier in September. The meeting resulted in significant advancements, including the establishment of the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) and the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace declaration. Korea also expressed its commitment to bolster cooperation in technology, innovation, and regional security, announcing plans to contribute to the PRF next year.
Discussions also addressed climate action, with Forum Ministers underscoring the urgent need for global collaboration. They welcomed Korea’s active involvement in climate initiatives, supporting ambitions aligned with the 1.5°C pathway while noting Korea’s upcoming 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). The importance of sustainable ocean governance was highlighted, with recognition given to Korea’s role in the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) and its support against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing through the Korea–PIF Cooperation Fund.
Ministers underscored the need for enhancing cultural exchanges, digital connectivity, and trade innovation. They also praised Korea’s initiative to co-host the 4th United Nations Ocean Conference with Chile in 2028, positing it as a pivotal opportunity to elevate Pacific leadership and galvanize international investment to protect oceanic resources.
The inaugural Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers Meeting was held in 2011, and the next gathering is scheduled for 2027. This continual engagement showcases the commitment of both Korea and the Pacific Islands to foster a collaborative environment aimed at addressing shared challenges and enhancing mutual prosperity.