South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyun announced on Tuesday the country’s commitment to bolster cooperation with Pacific Island countries (PICs) in addressing climate change and advancing digital and development projects. This pledge was made during the sixth Korea-Pacific Islands foreign ministers’ meeting held in Seoul, where Cho highlighted that South Korea has doubled its official development assistance compared to the previous year.
In his opening remarks, Cho emphasized the importance of tailoring cooperation to meet local needs, with a focus on priorities including climate resilience, digital capacity building, and resource management. The meeting was co-hosted by Cho and Peter Shannel Agovaka, the foreign minister of the Solomon Islands, and revolved around the theme “Partnership for a Resilient, Peaceful and Prosperous Pacific.”
The gathering included representatives from 17 member countries and territories of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), which comprises 18 nations aiming to enhance regional cooperation. In a significant outcome, the diplomats adopted a joint statement pledging to improve collaboration on climate change, environmental challenges, and issues concerning oceans, maritime affairs, and fisheries.
Additionally, the ministers expressed support for Korea’s initiative to co-host the fourth UN Ocean Conference with Chile in 2028, further highlighting their commitment to sustainable ocean management and cooperation in the region.
This strengthened partnership reflects a collective commitment to fostering resilience and addressing the pressing challenges faced by Pacific Island nations, with South Korea stepping up its role in supporting their development goals.