France has made significant commitments to support maritime and environmental initiatives in the Pacific, announcing direct funding and support worth €1.3 million for equipment in 2025, alongside €2 million dedicated to logistical air support and manoeuvres. These announcements were made by the French Ambassador to the Pacific, Véronique Roger-Lacan, during the second FFA Development Partner Symposium (DPS2).
In her address, Roger-Lacan highlighted that this financial support will bolster maritime patrols and training efforts by the Pacific Academy, ultimately enhancing the operational capacity of Pacific states and territories. She emphasized that the funding is essential for strengthening regional security and improving environmental monitoring capabilities within the Pacific.
France plays a crucial role within the European Union’s structure, contributing to 12 percent of the EU budget, which corresponds to 12 percent of the €40 million allocated to the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) for the years spanning 2018 to 2030. This financial input is indicative of France’s commitment to fisheries management and fostering regional cooperation while aligning with EU strategic priorities in the Pacific.
Additionally, the EU’s indirect funding of €40 million is earmarked for the Pacific Community (SPC) and the University of the South Pacific during the same period. This funding is dedicated to scientific research, capacity building, and education, promoting sustainable fisheries and effective management of marine resources in the region.
The Agence Française de Développement (AFD) has also launched the Global Pacific Ocean initiative, which includes €8 million in subsidies over five years, focusing on the protection of coastal fisheries and marine biodiversity across 16 states and territories. The initiative reflects a dedicated commitment to environmental sustainability in the Pacific, with the funds being channeled through regional organizations such as the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and SPC to amplify their impact.
These efforts underscore a collaborative approach to address the environmental and security challenges faced in the Pacific region, emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in the health and sustainability of marine ecosystems.
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