‘The region will change’: Forum chair calls for adaptation

Pacific Islands Forum Troika leaders met in Suva yesterday, focusing discussions on reforming Pacific regional governance ahead of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau next month.

The meeting brought together Forum Chairperson and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, Tongan Prime Minister Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua and Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr.

The meeting marked Mr Wale’s first official visit to Fiji since taking over the Forum chairmanship.

Opening the meeting, Mr Wale said Pacific institutions must continue to adapt to an increasingly complex strategic environment.

“The question before us is not whether the region will change. It will. The question is whether we, as a region, are positioned to evolve quickly enough to continue serving our Leaders and our people in an agile and efficient manner,” he said.

Leaders reviewed progress on the Suva Agreement and broader regional architecture reforms aimed at ensuring Pacific institutions remain fit for purpose, responsive and member-led.

They also discussed preparations for the region’s engagement ahead of COP31, including Fiji and Tuvalu’s hosting of the Pre-COP31 meeting later this year.

The leaders stressed the importance of maintaining a united Pacific voice on climate action and sustainable development.

The Troika also reviewed progress on the Pacific Resilience Facility and reaffirmed the need to secure capitalisation support from development partners.

Preparations for the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, scheduled for Palau from August 31 to September 4, also featured prominently.

Leaders reaffirmed the Forum’s role as the region’s premier political body and committed to maintaining Pacific unity, strengthening regional governance and accelerating the implementation of leaders’ decisions.