The Pacific Islands Forum Leaders convened with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres for their annual dialogue, coinciding with the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Guterres reinforced the UN’s commitment to the Pacific, recognizing the region’s distinct vulnerabilities and leadership on global issues. He lauded the Pacific’s efforts on climate change, peace initiatives, and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, underscoring the importance of their partnership.
Jeremiah Manele, the Solomon Islands Prime Minister and current Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, highlighted the significance of aligning the Pacific’s strategies with the UN’s 80th-anniversary reforms. The dialogue focused on key regional priorities identified during the 54th Pacific Islands Forum in the Solomon Islands earlier this year: climate change, peace and security, and reforming regional architecture for more robust multilateralism.
Forum Leaders emphasized that climate change remains the most significant threat to the Pacific, necessitating urgent global action. They urged the UN to address the International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion on climate change and support upcoming COP31 as a Pacific-hosted conference. The Pacific Resilience Facility was also highlighted as crucial for building regional climate resilience.
Leaders insisted on treating climate security as an integral part of the global peace and security agenda. They called for UN reforms that ensure the Pacific’s representation in decision-making bodies to influence outcomes on climate, development, peace, and finance. As the UNGA80 concludes, Pacific leaders and Guterres reiterated their dedication to translating discussions into impactful actions, promising a peaceful, resilient, and sustainable future for the Blue Pacific Continent.
These dialogues underscore the Pacific’s role as a proactive leader in climate advocacy and regional sustainability. The commitment to tangible action reflects a positive trajectory toward reinforcing the region’s voice on the global stage, enhancing resilience in face of challenges, and strengthening mutual partnerships. The Pacific Islands Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for unified efforts in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, advocating for sustainable development, and ensuring the prosperity and security of the Pacific peoples.