Fiji has received recognition from UN Secretary-General António Guterres for its important role in global peacekeeping and its proactive stance in climate discussions, as stated by Minister for Rural, Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka. Ditoka, who was part of a Fijian delegation that included Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, met with Guterres on Sunday.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Rabuka reinforced Fiji’s strong commitment to the United Nations, commending the Secretary-General’s leadership and highlighting Fiji’s alignment with the UN’s objectives aimed at promoting peace, security, and climate initiatives. Ditoka noted that Rabuka called for the Pacific region to be recognized as an “Ocean of Peace,” which reflects a shared vision of a Common Agenda for Peace based on trust, solidarity, and universality.
Ditoka emphasized that Fiji is regarded as a prominent voice in the Pacific, consistently standing up for peace, climate action, and regional cohesion on the international stage.
Additionally, Rabuka is set to engage in bilateral discussions with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and Tongan Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni. Over five days, Pacific leaders will deliberate on steps to be taken based on recommendations from various ministerial meetings scheduled for 2024.
The agenda will focus on implementation and actionable measures to fulfill the 2050 Strategy and establish a “fit for purpose” regional framework. Climate goals and financing will be prioritized, particularly the need for international support for the Pacific Resilience Facility. There remains a steadfast commitment to safeguarding Pacific communities and sovereignty against the impacts of climate change, particularly sea-level rise.