The Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, has proposed the creation of an Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States (OASIS) to tackle the escalating security issues confronting Pacific Island nations.
During his address at the Maritime Security Conference in Suva, Tikoduadua emphasized the critical role of maritime security for the region’s economic stability, food security, and sovereignty. He expressed that the safety of maritime domains is essential for the well-being of Pacific peoples, whose livelihoods are intrinsically linked to the ocean.
Tikoduadua pointed out the heightened pressures on the Pacific’s extensive ocean spaces, which have gained increased attention due to geopolitical rivalries and strategic competition. He stated, “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.”
To counter these challenges, Tikoduadua proposed OASIS as a formal platform for Pacific Island States to come together and address security concerns, including transnational organized crime, climate change, and illegal fishing practices. “OASIS would ensure that our voices are not drowned out by the geopolitical competition around us,” he emphasized.
The Minister highlighted the necessity of collective action, noting that Pacific Island States are frequently overlooked on the global stage. He urged regional nations to unite, asserting that collaboration is essential for securing their shared future. “In a world where Pacific Island States are often overshadowed, we must stand together,” he remarked.
The two-day maritime security workshop, which is set to conclude tomorrow, aims to foster collaboration among various agencies and explore strategies to safeguard the region’s maritime areas for the benefit of current and future generations. Tikoduadua expressed hope that the discussions would result in concrete actions that would enhance the long-term security and prosperity of the Pacific region.