Mark Brown, the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), addressed Foreign Affairs Ministers in Suva on Friday, urging them to be self-reliant and not depend on external goodwill. In his opening remarks for the 2024 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, Brown highlighted the increasing geostrategic interests facing the region.
He emphasized the ongoing battle against a climate crisis that worsens annually and the need to tackle emerging threats such as cyber-attacks and transnational crime. Brown stressed the importance of collective political solidarity, stating that when one member seeks assistance, the forum must respond as a united family.
He conveyed his satisfaction that the ministers were dedicating time to strengthen their shared goals and priorities amidst current pressures. “We can no longer rest on our laurels,” he said, noting that to fulfill their collective 2050 vision, they must engage more strategically and assertively.
Brown encouraged open and honest discussions among the ministers to maximize their collaborative efforts and thanked them for their support throughout his tenure as chair. As he nears the end of his term, he expressed gratitude for the cooperation received during the Cook Islands’ leadership of the PIF over the past 18 months, calling it an honor to serve in this capacity.