Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has underscored the urgent need for strategic realignment and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region to counter the rising strategic competition that jeopardizes regional stability. Speaking at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Rabuka emphasized the importance of creating a stable multipolar region by guiding major powers towards peaceful coexistence. He highlighted the direct connection between the Pacific and Indian Oceans as a channel for cooperation and peace.
Central to Rabuka’s address was the “Ocean of Peace” initiative, which positions the Pacific Islands as committed contributors to the global order. This initiative, recently adopted by Pacific Leaders at the Pacific Islands Forum, underscores mutual respect, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence. Rabuka articulated that this concept is influenced by the Pacific way, which stresses calm, conciliatory, and orderly governance grounded in historical and cultural faith.
Rabuka’s remarks come amid growing concerns about regional instability, including geopolitical competition and the myriad challenges that the Pacific nations face. The Prime Minister stressed that solutions to global conflicts must be founded on truth, fairness, and respect for the dignity of all peoples, warning that selective approaches to peace could undermine efforts and compromise global stability.
His vision echoes sentiments shared in various regional dialogues and conferences. At previous sessions like the Pacific Regional and National Security Conference, Rabuka has highlighted the “Ocean of Peace” as a framework for regional security, emphasizing that true peace demands not just robust security measures but also strong community cooperation built on harmony and mutual respect.
Rabuka’s initiative aligns with ongoing discussions about the Blue Pacific’s strategy, particularly the need for collective action in addressing pressing security threats, climate change, and economic instability. This cooperative approach aims to ensure that Pacific nations can navigate future challenges cohesively and effectively.
Looking ahead, the Ocean of Peace declaration awaits further refinement and potential ratification during upcoming meetings such as the Pacific Islands Forum in the Solomon Islands. This formal agenda, backed by a comprehensive set of principles, seeks to advance peace and prosperity across the region, underscoring the Pacific’s dedication to sustaining unity and development amidst a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.