The 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) wrapped up on Friday evening with expressions of gratitude, royal-style gift exchanges, and a celebration that highlighted Tonga’s renowned hospitality. The week was marked by a warm welcome, numerous meetings, challenging negotiations, and some positive outcomes.
During the meeting, Tonga’s Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku took on the Chairmanship of the Pacific Islands Forum for 2024, which includes hosting the 53rd PIF Leaders Meeting from August 26 to 30. This year’s theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” resonated with leaders across Oceania, emphasizing the necessity of integrated resilience in Pacific communities and sectors. This encompasses addressing climate change, building economies through collective solutions, and enhancing health and education by working collaboratively.
In their speeches, both outgoing Chairman Hon. Mark Brown of Cook Islands and incoming Chairman Hu’akavameiliku stressed the importance of transitioning from policy discussions to actionable implementation. “Policies are action plans that mean nothing unless implemented,” said Chairman Hu’akavameiliku, emphasizing the need for immediate action with the newly established 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Implementation also highlighted the urgent dialogue surrounding the climate crisis, including accountability for developed nations regarding their contributions. The forum’s opening day was overshadowed by significant weather events, including rain, flooding, and a 6.8 magnitude earthquake, underscoring the realities of climate change and disaster risks that Tonga faces. Nonetheless, discussions proceeded, aligning with the theme of resilience.
A key outcome of PIFLM 53 was the creation of the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), with Tonga designated as the hosting country. This facility will provide support for nations dealing with climate change effects and aims at preventive measures to mitigate its impacts. Pledges to the PRF have reached approximately US$137 million, with calls for increased funding to meet a target of US$1.5 billion.
The camaraderie among leaders in Tonga fostered a sense of unity, although some controversial topics, such as anti-corruption measures, were addressed. Civil society organizations also voiced opposition to Japan’s release of nuclear wastewater into the Pacific Ocean, urging leaders to prioritize the issue.
The concept of an Ocean of Peace featured prominently, with discussions around the Pacific Policing Initiative (PPI) resulting in promising endorsements for future collaboration.
Leaders also tackled pressing issues in New Caledonia, a PIF member territory facing severe socio-economic turmoil following recent unrest. A mission to facilitate dialogue in New Caledonia, initially planned before the meeting, will proceed under new guidelines.
France’s Ambassador to the Pacific confirmed support for this mission, emphasizing transparency and readiness for collaboration.
Additionally, the final version of the PIF Communique included a statement reaffirming past decisions regarding relations with Taiwan. However, this reference was later removed following claims that the inclusion was a mistake, raising concerns regarding China’s influence over the forum.
This alteration has sparked discussions about regional unity and the shifting diplomatic landscape for Taiwan in the Pacific, as some nations continue to support its development partnerships amidst growing Chinese influence.