The 6th Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers Meeting concluded successfully in Seoul on December 8-9, highlighting a commitment to enhancing cooperation with the theme “Partnerships for a Resilient, Peaceful, and Prosperous Pacific.” This meeting was historic as it marked the first time all Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) members participated, underscoring the principles of unity and solidarity outlined in the Blue Pacific Principles for Dialogue and Engagement and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Co-chaired by South Korea’s Foreign Minister Hyun Cho and Peter Shanel Agovaka, Foreign Minister of the Solomon Islands, the biennial meeting aimed to strengthen political dialogue and partnerships. A delegation from the PIF Secretariat, led by Secretary General Baron Divavesi Waqa, also supported the regional ministerial delegation during the discussions.
Notable attendees included Crown Prince of Tonga Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, President of New Caledonia Alcide Ponga, Niue’s Prime Minister Dalton Talelagi, and Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo. The joint statement issued at the meeting emphasized the continued advancement of Korea-PIF relations, highlighting Korea’s support for the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, along with an emphasis on inclusive development, trade, and regional solidarity.
In his opening remarks, Agovaka stressed the shared values underpinning the Korea-PIF partnership and emphasized their commitment to safeguarding oceanic resources and regional stability. Cho Hyun echoed these sentiments, reaffirming Korea’s determination to foster a structured framework for cooperation.
Korea acknowledged its recognition of the Pacific Islands Forum as the leading political entity in the region and reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives such as the newly established Pacific Resilience Facility and the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace declaration. Additionally, Korea pledged to contribute to the Pacific Resilience Facility in the upcoming year, showcasing its support for the region’s resilience.
On the critical issue of climate leadership, Forum Ministers voiced the urgency for global action and welcomed Korea’s engagement in climate initiatives, aligning with the 1.5°C goal. They recognized Korea’s proactive stance at the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission and commended its efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
The meeting also prioritized the importance of cultural exchanges and cooperation in innovation and trade. Notably, the Ministers welcomed Korea’s initiative to co-host the 4th United Nations Ocean Conference with Chile in 2028, which is anticipated to be a pivotal platform for enhancing Pacific leadership and attracting global investment for ocean preservation.
The inaugural Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers meeting took place in 2011, with the next gathering scheduled for 2027, signifying a continuous dedication to fostering fruitful partnerships and addressing shared challenges in the Pacific region.
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