Pacific nations have taken center stage in the global discourse on climate and ocean security by attending one of the largest maritime gatherings in India, officially known as MILAN 2026. Hosted by the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam, the event saw participation from 74 countries, where the Commander of the Fiji Navy, Commodore Timoci Natuva, articulated the pressing maritime concerns faced by the Pacific islands.
During the Maritime Seminar, Commodore Natuva highlighted the serious threats posed by illegal activities at sea, such as transnational crime and unauthorized fishing, compounded by the devastating impacts of climate change. He noted that these issues are particularly consequential for Pacific nations, which experience substantial financial losses due to illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, alongside the crises brought about by rising sea levels and increasingly severe storms affecting coastal communities and maritime infrastructure.
Engagements on the sidelines of the forum allowed Natuva to discuss solutions and strengthen partnerships with senior officials from various naval forces, including those from the United States Pacific Fleet, the Tonga Navy, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, the Royal New Zealand Navy, and the Royal Australian Navy. The discussions revolved around improving coordinated responses to shared challenges, underscoring the importance of collective maritime security.
Representatives from other Pacific nations echoed these sentiments. The Papua New Guinea Defence Force stressed the significance of protecting fisheries that are vital for local livelihoods, while Tonga’s naval delegation reiterated the necessity of regional cooperation, emphasizing that small island states rely on strong partnerships to secure their ocean space. New Zealand officials further emphasized that maritime security must extend to include climate resilience and effective disaster response.
For Pacific nations, maritime security transcends mere defense; it encompasses food security, economic survival, and the sovereignty of vast ocean territories. Fiji’s involvement in MILAN 2026 illustrates its commitment to collaborate with regional and global partners aimed at safeguarding its maritime interests.
The International Fleet Review not only offered a platform for nations to reinforce diplomatic connections through a collective maritime display but also allowed Pacific leaders to communicate the urgency of addressing ocean challenges uniquely faced by their region. As they advocate for stronger enforcement against illegal fishing and enhance surveillance, Pacific representatives at MILAN are ensuring that critical issues around climate, fisheries, and community safety remain prominent in global security discussions. Their proactive stance is vital for combating the challenges posed by an evolving maritime landscape and showcases their resilience and cooperation in facing the threats that lie ahead.