The Second Pacific Islands Ocean Conference began in Honiara with a strong message of unity, integration of scientific and traditional knowledge, and regional cooperation in promoting sustainable ocean governance. This significant event highlights the importance of Pacific leadership in the global ocean agenda, focusing on urgent issues like climate change, illegal fishing, marine pollution, and biodiversity loss, which collectively threaten food security, livelihoods, and ecosystems in the Pacific.
The Director-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), Noan David Pakop, underscored the vital role of regional collaboration, backed by robust scientific evidence, in safeguarding tuna resources crucial to the Pacific’s economies and communities. Emphasizing unity, Pakop remarked, “Our greatest strength lies in solidarity, science, and traditional knowledge – working together to protect our ocean and our future.”
Recent advancements, like the ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement and the creation of large marine protected areas by Pacific nations, demonstrate the region’s proactive stance on ocean conservation. Pakop stressed the importance of inclusive partnerships among governments, civil society, and the private sector, and highlighted ocean literacy as essential for ongoing stewardship.
Building on the Pacific’s history of regional accomplishments, such as the formation of the Pacific Regional Ocean Policy and contributions to Sustainable Development Goal 14 dedicated to ocean sustainability, this conference aims to synchronize the efforts of various stakeholders, including scientists, development partners, and community leaders, to create a sustainable Blue Pacific. The five-day event, ending on October 3, 2025, reaffirms the commitment of Pacific nations to embrace regional solidarity and merge traditional wisdom with scientific innovation to protect the ocean’s well-being and prosperity.
The enduring advocacy and collaborative spirit of Pacific nations continue to inspire hope for substantial change, promoting sustainable ocean solutions that benefit both the region and global efforts to preserve marine resources. Through united action, the Pacific region seeks to secure a thriving future for its ocean and communities, ensuring that knowledge and cultural heritage remain vital pillars in the pursuit of sustainable ocean stewardship.