Leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum recently convened with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly for their annual dialogue. Guterres reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to the Pacific region, recognizing its unique vulnerabilities and contributions to global issues such as climate change, peace initiatives, and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. He highlighted the strong partnership between the Pacific Islands and the UN.
Jeremiah Manele, Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands and current Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, emphasized aligning the Pacific’s strategies with the UN’s 80th-anniversary reforms. Discussions during the dialogue centered on regional priorities, as identified during the 54th Pacific Islands Forum held in the Solomon Islands earlier this year. These priorities include addressing climate change, enhancing peace and security, and reforming regional frameworks to facilitate more robust multilateralism.
The forum leaders underscored that climate change remains the greatest threat to the Pacific, calling for urgent global action. They urged the UN to address the International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion on climate change and expressed support for the upcoming COP31, envisioned as a Pacific-hosted conference. Additionally, the establishment of the Pacific Resilience Facility was highlighted as essential for enhancing the region’s climate resilience.
Leaders advocated for the integration of climate security into the global peace and security agenda. They called for reforms within the UN to ensure Pacific representation in key decision-making bodies, thereby influencing outcomes related to climate, development, peace, and finance. As the UN General Assembly’s 80th session concludes, both Pacific leaders and Guterres have reiterated their commitment to turning discussions into impactful actions aimed at securing a peaceful, resilient, and sustainable future for the Blue Pacific Continent.
These sessions underscore the proactive role of Pacific nations in global climate advocacy and sustainability efforts. The dialogue reflects a positive path toward amplifying the region’s influence on the world stage, bolstering resilience amid challenges, and strengthening mutual partnerships. The Pacific Islands Forum remains a crucial platform for unified efforts in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, pursuing sustainable development, and ensuring the prosperity and security of Pacific peoples.