Mark Brown, chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), called on Foreign Affairs Ministers from the region meeting in Suva on Friday to avoid relying on the goodwill of others. In his opening address at the 2024 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, Brown highlighted the growing geostrategic interests affecting the area.
He emphasized the ongoing battle against a worsening climate crisis and the rise of new challenges, including cyber-attacks and transnational crime. Brown reiterated the need for political solidarity among member states, ensuring a collective response whenever one member calls for assistance. He stressed the importance of unity during these testing times.
Brown expressed satisfaction that the ministers were taking the opportunity to discuss and strengthen shared priorities amidst external pressures. He insisted that the region must not become complacent, stressing the need for a more strategic and assertive approach to achieving their collective 2050 vision.
To this end, he urged all participants to engage in open, constructive, and candid discussions, making the most of the forum. As he concluded his remarks, Brown thanked the ministers for their collaboration as he nears the end of his tenure as chair, expressing gratitude for their support over the past 18 months and the honor of leading the forum.