“Charting a Course: The ‘Ocean of Peace’ Vision for Pacific Security”

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka articulated his vision of the “Ocean of Peace” during the Pacific Regional and National Security Conference in Suva. He emphasized the importance of fostering a secure and stable environment characterized by cooperation and unity among Pacific nations. Rabuka articulated that true peace is not solely the responsibility of security forces but calls for strong community foundations built on harmony and mutual respect.

He stated that the concept of “Ocean of Peace” reflects a collective commitment to development, underscoring that national security and economic development go hand in hand. The Prime Minister presented twelve guiding principles that underpin this initiative, which includes respecting international law, promoting non-coercion in security matters, and advocating for the freedom of navigation and overflight among Pacific nations.

Rabuka expressed excitement about the collaborative efforts taking shape ahead of the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Solomon Islands, where officials are working on the Ocean of Peace Declaration. This declaration is anticipated to champion peace and prosperity across the region.

Baron Waqa, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, echoed Rabuka’s sentiments, stressing the need for a united approach to tackle the pressing security challenges while emphasizing the forum’s goal to build strength and trust within communities. The conference also serves as a platform for security leaders and experts to discuss and strategize around both current and emerging threats in the Pacific.

Additionally, Rabuka’s repeated calls for regional cooperation mirror sentiments from previous conferences, where he addressed multifaceted challenges such as climate change and economic instability plaguing the Pacific. His optimistic perspective encourages a hopeful outlook for collaboration among Pacific nations in facing shared challenges and striving for a peaceful future resilient to both present and upcoming threats. This unified strategy could potentially reshape the narrative of security in the Pacific, offering a tangible path toward sustaining peace and prosperity in the region.