Foreign Ministers from the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and South Korea have wrapped up their sixth biennial meeting in Seoul, marking a significant step toward collective efforts to nurture a resilient, peaceful, and prosperous Blue Pacific region. This year’s gathering was particularly notable as it featured the participation of all Forum members for the first time, symbolizing a strong sense of unity across the Pacific.
Co-chaired by South Korea’s Foreign Minister Hyun Cho and the Solomon Islands’ Foreign Minister Peter Shanel Agovaka, the meeting was attended by prominent figures including Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, the President of New Caledonia, Niue’s Prime Minister, and Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister.
A joint statement released by the ministers highlighted their gratitude for South Korea’s ongoing support of the Pacific’s ambitious 2050 Strategy while reinforcing the need for enhanced collaboration in inclusive development, trade, and regional security. South Korea announced plans to contribute to the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) next year, aimed at strengthening climate adaptation and disaster response initiatives.
Climate leadership was a central focus, with ministers urging for urgent global action and commending South Korea’s new climate targets set for 2035. They also acknowledged Korea’s efforts to address illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, which are critical for fostering sustainable ocean governance.
In addition to environmental issues, the ministers discussed strengthening cultural ties and fostering cooperation in innovation, digital connectivity, and trade. They expressed enthusiasm over Korea’s commitment to co-host the 2028 UN Ocean Conference with Chile, which will serve as an important venue for elevating Pacific leadership in global ocean matters.
Since its inception in 2011, the Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is set to reconvene in 2027, indicating a long-term commitment to collaboration and partnership. This shared vision signals a promising future for both the Pacific Islands and South Korea as they strive toward common objectives and shared aspirations.