The 6th Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers Meeting took place in Seoul from December 8 to 9, bringing together Foreign Ministers to bolster cooperation under the theme “Partnerships for a Resilient, Peaceful, and Prosperous Pacific.” This significant event marked the participation of all members of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), reflecting the One Blue Pacific Principles that stress unity and solidarity, as articulated in the Blue Pacific Principles for Dialogue and Engagement and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Co-chaired by South Korea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hyun Cho, and Solomon Islands’ Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter Shanel Agovaka, the discussions aimed to strengthen political dialogue and regional partnerships. The PIF Secretariat, led by Secretary General Baron Divavesi Waqa, provided essential support to delegates from the participating nations.
Prominent figures at the meeting included Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala of Tonga, New Caledonia’s President Alcide Ponga, Niue’s Prime Minister Dalton Talelagi, and Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo. The summit concluded with a joint statement highlighting the strengthening ties between Korea and the PIF, reaffirming commitments to the 2050 Strategy and prioritizing inclusive development, trade, investment, and regional unity.
In his opening remarks, Minister Agovaka emphasized the partnership’s foundation on mutual values and a commitment to the welfare of both regions. He pointed out that collaboration with Pacific-led initiatives underscores their dedication to safeguarding oceanic resources and ensuring stability in the region. Minister Cho also echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the vital role of solidarity within the PIF to navigate Korea’s partnerships with Pacific nations.
Korea reiterated its recognition of the PIF as the key political body for the region, following the achievements from the 54th PIF Leaders’ Meeting held in Honiara in September. Notable outcomes from that meeting included the establishment of the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) and the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace declaration. Korea committed to enhancing cooperation in technology, innovation, and regional security, with plans to support the PRF in the coming year.
The agenda also focused on climate action, with Forum Ministers highlighting the necessity of global collaboration. They noted Korea’s participation in climate initiatives supporting goals aligned with the 1.5°C pathway and mentioned Korea’s upcoming 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). Sustainable ocean governance was a key topic, with recognition of Korea’s efforts in the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) and its support against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing through the Korea–PIF Cooperation Fund.
Ministers addressed the importance of enhancing cultural exchanges, digital connectivity, and innovative trade solutions. They expressed support for Korea’s initiative to co-host the 4th United Nations Ocean Conference with Chile in 2028, framing it as a crucial opportunity to elevate Pacific leadership and attract international investment for oceanic resource protection.
The inaugural Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers Meeting was convened in 2011, with the next meeting scheduled for 2027. This ongoing engagement illustrates the commitment from both Korea and the Pacific Islands to work collaboratively in addressing shared challenges and enhancing mutual prosperity in the region.