A fire at the COP30 venue in Belém has prompted the early conclusion of events, but Pacific delegates remain steadfast in their commitments as global climate negotiations move into their critical final days. Dr. Filimon Manoni, the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, addressed journalists during an online media briefing, describing the previous two weeks as largely successful for Pacific representatives despite the disruption caused by the fire.
Dr. Manoni expressed that while the incident marked an unfortunate day, the Pacific negotiators have maintained their resolve, emphasizing adherence to their non-negotiable targets. “The 1.5 degrees target is non-negotiable,” he stated. The Pacific nations are determined to ensure all nations fulfill their obligations in striving to limit global warming.
A significant point of discussion has been the role of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion regarding nations’ climate responsibilities, a vital initiative backed by Pacific Island countries. Dr. Manoni referred to this as “a huge arrow in the Pacific’s quiver” in the broader fight for climate justice.
Moreover, ocean-related issues are a prominent focus of the Pacific’s agenda at COP30. Dr. Manoni pointed out the importance of ensuring that the ocean receives appropriate attention in climate negotiations. He expressed the desire for ocean discussions, currently part of an annual dialogue in Bonn, to be formally included in the COP negotiation framework. As Fiji prepares to co-facilitate the Bonn Ocean–Climate Dialogue from 2026, Dr. Manoni hopes this will enhance the visibility of ocean concerns in climate discussions.
He also commended Brazil, the host country of COP30, for their commitment to prioritizing ocean issues this year, including appointing a special envoy for ocean advocacy. Recognizing the dedication of Pacific ministers and negotiators actively working on the ground in Belém, Dr. Manoni called for support from their home regions for their advocacy efforts.
The events at COP30 serve as a reminder of the Pacific’s unwavering commitment to addressing climate change and the need for collaborative efforts to protect our oceans and achieve meaningful progress in climate negotiations. The resilient spirit of the Pacific delegates shines through amidst adversity, fostering hope for a robust and united front in the fight against climate change.
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