Fiji’s President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has highlighted a growing distrust driven by a gap between people’s expectations and the insufficient responses of the multilateral system. This assertion was made during his inaugural address to global leaders at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
In his remarks, President Katonivere noted that a ballistic missile was unilaterally test-fired into the Pacific Ocean from outside the region the previous day. He emphasized the need for respect for the Pacific, advocating for peace and sovereignty, stating, “The Pacific as the ocean of peace is our contribution to world order and peace.” He asserted that while Fiji is a small nation, it plays a significant role in promoting regionalism and multilateral cooperation.
The President expressed concern for developing nations, particularly Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries, which continue to struggle amid various crises. He identified major challenges such as climate change, rising sea levels, pandemics, poverty, and social injustices that require urgent attention.
Katonivere called for bold leadership capable of fostering political will and mobilizing resources to find solutions that benefit humanity. He presented two choices for leaders: to retreat or to persist in efforts to innovate and reform. The outcomes of these decisions, he warned, will define their legacy.
He stressed the necessity of strong international collaboration, diplomacy, and adherence to UN principles, underlining that trust is imperative for effective multilateralism. He highlighted the urgency of nurturing a culture of peace, recalling the historical significance of the Blue Pacific Continent, which has suffered from the devastating effects of conflicts, including its involvement in the World Wars and the testing of dangerous weapons.
In related news, China reported that it successfully conducted an intercontinental ballistic missile test in the Pacific on Wednesday, a move interpreted as a demonstration of strength aimed at the United States and its allies amid rising regional tensions. The missile, which carried a dummy warhead, was launched as part of routine military exercises and was not aimed at any specific target, according to Chinese officials.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.