Tonga’s Minister of Lands, Survey, Planning, and Natural Resources, Dr. ‘Uhilamoelangi Fasi, has advocated for a responsible and cooperative approach to deep-sea mining (DSM), emphasizing that the decisions made now will significantly impact the future of the Pacific region. During the Deep-Sea Minerals Technical Meeting held at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, Fasi stressed the necessity of balancing economic benefits with environmental responsibilities.
“This meeting is a crucial step in our collective efforts to manage deep-sea minerals (DSM) responsibly. Our leaders acknowledge the importance of regional dialogue on DSM,” he stated, addressing a gathering of officials and technical experts. The meeting is timely, as it sets the stage for a High-Level Talanoa on February 21, in which Pacific Leaders will discuss the governance of DSM.
The region has shown a divided stance on DSM. Some governments view it as an avenue for economic growth, while others are concerned about its adverse effects on marine ecosystems. Fasi recognized these differing perspectives and urged participants to foster open dialogue. He highlighted the importance of aligning discussions with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which champions regional unity, sustainability, and respect for national sovereignty.
Fasi underscored traditional Pacific values, calling for a talanoa—a process rooted in Pacific culture centered on inclusive and respectful discourse. He encouraged all participants to engage in constructive discussions that focus on long-term solutions rather than immediate differences.
The goals for the meeting include finalizing agendas, documenting discussions to inform leaders effectively, and strengthening regional cooperation for the sustainable governance of DSM. Fasi emphasized Tonga’s leadership role in these discussions, committing to advance a vision of sustainable and inclusive mineral governance.
In an interconnected narrative regarding DSM, recent discussions from the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) reflect broader regional concerns. FCOSS has raised alarms about legislation gaps in Fiji that may lead to harmful mining practices, urging legal reforms to protect the environment and community rights. Such actions resonate with Dr. Fasi’s call for sustainability and stewardship as critical components of any discussions surrounding deep-sea resources.
These movements indicate a growing recognition across the Pacific for the need to protect marine ecosystems while considering economic opportunities, paving the way for responsible and sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. The spirit of collaboration emphasized by Dr. Fasi and echoed by civil society groups suggests a hopeful path forward, prioritizing the health of the Pacific Ocean and the well-being of its peoples for generations to come.
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