Mark Brown, the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), has urged Foreign Affairs Ministers from the region, who convened in Suva on Friday, to refrain from relying on the goodwill of outside parties. In his opening remarks for the 2024 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, Brown emphasized that the region is facing heightened geostrategic interests.
He noted the ongoing battle against a worsening climate crisis, which continues to escalate annually. Brown highlighted challenges such as cyber-attacks and transnational crime, stressing the importance of regional political solidarity in responding effectively to calls for assistance from member nations. He reiterated the critical nature of collective unity in the face of these challenges.
Amid these pressures, he expressed satisfaction that the ministers were taking the time to discuss how to enhance their shared priorities and progress. Brown called for a more strategic and assertive approach to collective engagement in order to achieve their shared vision for 2050. He emphasized the need for partners to align with their priorities and aspirations.
He encouraged open, constructive, and honest discussions among the ministers, underscoring the importance of making the most of the summit. As his tenure as forum chair approaches its conclusion, Brown thanked the ministers for their collaboration, recognizing their support and candor throughout his time in this role. He expressed that it has been both an honor and a privilege to serve the Forum membership and acknowledged each member’s support during the past 18 months.