The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has proposed the establishment of a formal alliance among Pacific Island nations to address the increasing challenges in maritime security. During the Maritime Security Conference at the Grand Pacific Hotel, he introduced the idea of an “Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States” (OASIS), which aims to safeguard the region against dangers such as illegal fishing, transnational crime, and the impacts of climate change.
Mr. Tikoduadua underscored the deep connection Pacific inhabitants have with the ocean, emphasizing that their food, economic stability, and overall well-being are closely associated with maritime security. He called for urgent action to protect the maritime domain.
He highlighted the strategic importance of the Blue Pacific and noted the heightened geopolitical competition involving China, the United States, and their allies, which has raised awareness around Fiji and its neighboring countries.
The Minister urged that the Pacific region must take control of its resources to ensure a secure future.
British High Commissioner Brian Jones echoed these sentiments, pointing out that maritime security encompasses not only surface issues but also includes the seabed, undersea cables carrying vast amounts of data, and the satellites orchestrating modern shipping activities.
Munkhtuya Altangerel, the UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office, emphasized the importance of empowering local maritime communities as the “first line of defense” against regional threats. She suggested that well-supported and prosperous maritime communities could deter adversaries effectively.
The two-day Maritime Security Conference brought together representatives from government sectors, King’s College London, and various stakeholders to encourage collaboration and discuss strategies to sustain and protect Fiji’s maritime environments for current and future generations.