Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the growing significance of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) during its 53rd meeting in Tonga. She stated that collaboration among member nations is essential to achieving shared goals such as job creation, improved health services, education, and combating climate change.
Wong highlighted the PIF as a platform where 18 Pacific nations, including Fiji and Australia, unite to address challenges and pursue common objectives. She noted that for over 50 years, PIF members have contributed to building a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region, enabling progress.
With numerous pressing challenges at hand, Wong asserted that the PIF’s role has never been more crucial. During the meetings in Tonga, leaders, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, are expected to discuss key issues.
Wong pointed out that Australia considers these discussions vital for understanding Pacific nations’ priorities, particularly regarding natural disaster preparedness. Australia is responding by investing in humanitarian warehouses across the Pacific, as recently announced with New Zealand in Fiji.
As climate change remains the most significant immediate threat to the region, Wong mentioned Australia’s commitment to transitioning to cleaner energy, aiming for 82 percent of its energy to come from renewable sources by the end of the decade, as part of the country’s goal for net-zero emissions by 2050.
She reiterated Australia’s dedication to supporting Pacific nations in preparing for the impacts of climate change, affirming that the Pacific is considered home. Wong concluded by expressing that collaborative efforts will ensure the region remains peaceful, stable, and prosperous for years to come.