European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, convened with leaders from the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) in Tonga to discuss the future direction of the Pacific Protocol stemming from the Samoa Agreement. The agreement, signed in November 2023, outlines a framework for collaboration between the European Union (EU) and 79 nations within the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States.
The protocol aims to enhance collaboration in various sectors, including the blue economy, environmental protection, and climate resilience. Commissioner Urpilainen emphasized the importance of strong partnerships in a time of geopolitical instability, stating, “This period of geopolitical tension and instability demonstrates the critical need for strong, reliable partnerships to protect shared interests and values, such as advancing climate action and upholding the rules-based international order.”
Highlighting the 40-year relationship between the Pacific Island Countries and the EU, she expressed the intent to deepen this cooperation for a more significant impact, fostering people-centered development and sustainable prosperity through the Global Gateway investment strategy.
During her visit, the Commissioner held bilateral meetings with high-level representatives from partner countries and discussed the EU Global Gateway strategy’s role in promoting sustainable growth in the region. She announced several initiatives aimed at building a resilient and sustainable Pacific:
– In Vanuatu, a final payment of €1.2 million will be disbursed under the Vanuatu Value Chain Programme to support climate-resilient development in rural communities.
– In Tonga, a €1 million Technical Assistance project will be initiated to reform the energy institutional framework.
– In Samoa, €3.1 million will be allocated for enhancing water resilience and climate change adaptation.
– Kiribati will receive €2.5 million for feasibility and design studies for a Multi-Purpose port on Kiritimati Island to create economic opportunities for local communities.
Urpilainen also visited a community project funded by the EU aimed at helping vulnerable households prepare for and respond to climate risks. Engaging with youth and civil society, she underscored the significance of youth participation in policy-making and announced the launch of the EU Youth Empowerment Fund along with the establishment of the EU Youth Sounding Board for the Pacific.
With a background in education and advocacy for youth rights, Commissioner Urpilainen reaffirmed her commitment to empowering young people and incorporating their perspectives into policy decisions.
The Samoa Agreement, which encompasses 106 nations and approximately 1.5 billion individuals, serves as a comprehensive partnership between the EU and OACPS, focusing on priorities such as environmental sustainability, economic development, and human rights. The Pacific Protocol aligns closely with the PIF 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, aiming to strengthen collective responses to global challenges.