Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has advocated for Pacific-led initiatives to enhance investment and security partnerships following the conclusion of the Pacific Agenda: Investment, Security and Shared Prosperity Summit in Honolulu.
In his closing remarks at the two-day event at the East-West Centre, Prime Minister Manele underscored the interconnectedness of investment and security as vital components for achieving sustainable prosperity throughout the Pacific region. As the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, he stressed the need for regional priorities to be driven by a comprehensive understanding of the Pacific context, emphasizing that solutions must be developed and executed with Pacific Island countries leading the way.
Manele pointed out that the region already has key frameworks in place, including the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, the Pacific Roadmap on Economic Development, and the Ocean of Peace Declaration, which guide collective actions. He noted the significance of Forum mechanisms, such as the Forum Economic Ministers Dialogue, in supporting national development goals.
The Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of translating the discussions from the Summit into actionable outcomes that can strengthen partnerships with the United States, acknowledging the crucial role of the Pacific Islands Development Programme in facilitating regional coordination. He expressed optimism for ongoing collaboration through upcoming Pacific Islands Leaders’ processes.
Additionally, Manele called for assistance in establishing a Pacific Trade and Invest Office in the United States to enhance connectivity between Pacific economies and global trade and investment prospects. He recognized the efforts of United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau for his leadership in organizing the Summit alongside the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the East-West Center.
In closing, the Prime Minister extended his gratitude to fellow Pacific leaders, government officials, private sector representatives, and all participants for their valuable contributions and engagement throughout the Summit. This Summit reflects a hopeful move toward stronger regional cooperation and the pursuit of shared prosperity in the Pacific.