Mark Brown, chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), has called on Foreign Affairs Ministers from the region, who convened in Suva on Friday, to stop relying on the goodwill of external parties. In his opening remarks during the 2024 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, Mr. Brown highlighted the growing geostrategic interests that the region is facing.
He stated, “We continue to battle a climate crisis that intensifies every year,” underscoring the challenges posed by cyber-attacks and transnational crime. Mr. Brown emphasized the importance of political solidarity among member states, advocating for a unified response whenever a member requires assistance.
He expressed satisfaction with the ministers’ commitment to strengthening shared priorities and making progress together. “We can no longer rest on our laurels and depend on the goodwill of others,” he warned. To achieve their collective 2050 vision, he stressed the need for a more strategic and assertive approach in their engagements with partners to ensure their priorities are met.
Mr. Brown encouraged open, constructive, and honest discussions during the meeting, stating, “This is our space; let’s make the most of it.” As he nears the end of his tenure as chair, he expressed gratitude to the ministers for their support and cooperation throughout his term, acknowledging the honor of having led the Pacific Islands Forum for the past 18 months.