Mark Brown, the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), emphasized the need for Foreign Affairs Ministers from the region to prioritize self-reliance during their meeting in Suva on Friday. In his opening remarks for the 2024 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, he highlighted the increasing geostrategic interests facing the Pacific Islands.
“We are continuously facing a climate crisis that escalates year after year,” Brown stated. He pointed out that the region is also confronting emerging threats such as cyber-attacks and transnational crime. Strengthening political solidarity among member nations is essential, ensuring that when one member reaches out for assistance, the forum can collectively respond.
Brown stressed the significance of unity, urging ministers to focus on enhancing their shared goals and priorities during these challenging times. He remarked that reliance on others’ goodwill is no longer a viable strategy. To achieve their shared vision for 2050, the Pacific Islands need to adopt a more strategic and assertive approach to international engagement.
As the meeting progressed, Brown encouraged open and constructive discussions among ministers, emphasizing the importance of maximizing the opportunities within this forum. He expressed gratitude to the ministers for their support throughout his tenure as chair, noting it has been an honor for him and his government to serve in this capacity.
As he approaches the end of his leadership role, Brown acknowledged the collaboration and candor of all participants over the past 18 months, underscoring the privilege it has been to chair the Pacific Islands Forum.