Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa has emphasized the region’s unity and commitment to its collective presence on the international stage following the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting held in Honiara. In a recent press briefing, Waqa highlighted the significant engagement of Forum leaders at influential events throughout the year, including COP30 and the 80th United Nations General Assembly, showcasing a unified message from the Pacific region.
This year’s Forum theme, “Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent,” embodies the solidarity among member nations and reflects the necessity to navigate the quickly evolving geopolitical landscape. Waqa pointed out that the Pacific is experiencing unprecedented geopolitical interest, presenting both opportunities and responsibilities for the region.
Underlining the importance of regional unity, Waqa described the Pacific Islands Forum as the pivotal political entity for dialogue and cooperative decision-making amid a fiercely competitive geopolitical environment. He stressed that maintaining strong bonds among member states is essential, asserting that the Forum’s mission is to “hold the space” and uphold this unity.
The Forum reported considerable progress on the Blue Pacific Vision, particularly through the Ocean of Peace Declaration, which emphasizes the region’s dedication to stability and collaboration. Waqa noted that the declaration encapsulates Pacific values and advocates for security driven by dialogue rather than division. The focus is now shifting toward socialization and implementation to ensure this commitment guides future interactions with external partners.
Waqa also elaborated on the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which continues to lead regional initiatives in critical areas, including climate resilience, economic connectivity, and cooperative efforts. The ongoing evaluation of the regional architecture is viewed as vital for enhancing coordination, minimizing duplicated efforts, and improving overall service delivery within the regional framework.
Looking ahead, Waqa signaled that the upcoming year will emphasize implementation and integration within the regional strategy, prioritizing climate change resilience and economic connectivity. Leaders anticipate that the regional system will foster more effective collaboration, with the Forum Secretariat playing a key role in transforming political objectives into tangible outcomes.
On the topic of international collaborations, Waqa reiterated the Pacific’s determination to engage confidently, adhering to the 2026 Leaders’ Policy on Partnerships, and ensuring that engagements align with regional priorities. Despite the disappointment surrounding Australia not hosting the upcoming Pacific COP, he welcomed Australia’s commitment to work closely with Turkey for COP31 and the plans for a pre-COP leaders’ summit in the Pacific in 2026. This collaboration presents an opportunity to elevate Pacific priorities, such as the interconnectedness of climate and ocean issues, as well as access to climate finance, ensuring partnerships enhance the region’s goals.
Through these ongoing initiatives, the Pacific Islands Forum is firmly reinforcing its commitment to a united and proactive future on both regional and global fronts.