Pio Tikoduadua, the Minister for Home Affairs, has advocated for the creation of an Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States (OASIS) to tackle the escalating security challenges encountered by Pacific Island nations.
During his address at the Maritime Security Conference held in Suva today, Tikoduadua emphasized the significance of maritime security for the economic stability, food security, and sovereignty of the region. He pointed out that the safety and security of the maritime areas are vital for the well-being of Pacific peoples, as their livelihoods are intricately linked to the ocean.
He noted the increasing pressures on the vast ocean territories of the Pacific, which are gaining attention due to geopolitical rivalries and strategic power dynamics. Tikoduadua remarked, “Strategic power competition, not only for marine resources but also for leadership in the Blue Pacific, Asia-Pacific, or Indo-Pacific—depending on perspective—has drawn the attention of powerful nations to our vast ocean.”
In light of these challenges, he proposed OASIS as a formal platform for Pacific Island States to collaborate on addressing various security concerns, including transnational organized crime, climate change, and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Tikoduadua stated, “OASIS would ensure that our voices are not drowned out by the geopolitical competition around us.”
The Minister stressed the necessity of collective action, highlighting that Pacific Island States are frequently overlooked on the global stage. He called for unity among the regional nations, asserting that collaboration is essential for securing their common future. “In a world where Pacific Island States are often overshadowed, we must stand together,” he stated.
The two-day maritime security workshop, which wraps up tomorrow, aims to foster cooperation among various agencies and discuss strategies to safeguard the region’s maritime areas for the benefit of both present and future generations. Tikoduadua expressed hope that the discussions would translate into tangible actions beyond the conference to enhance the long-term security and prosperity of the Pacific.