The Permanent Secretary of the Solomon Islands Foreign Affairs Ministry, Collin Beck, has emphasized the necessity for serious discussions regarding the participation of non-independent countries in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). Beck noted that the Forum was initially designed exclusively for independent nations to comply with international law and the United Nations Charter.
New Caledonia was granted full membership in 2016 due to its ongoing decolonization process. However, concerns have been raised about the applications for associate membership from Guam and American Samoa, both of which are U.S. territories. The PIF leaders are expected to make decisions on these bids on Friday.
Guam’s Governor Lou Leon Guerrero expressed his desire to become a full PIF member, stating that it is his ultimate goal. Dr. Tess Newton Cain, the project lead at Griffith Asia Institute’s Pacific Hub, indicated that the inclusion of American Samoa and Guam as territories could symbolize a strategic move by the United States to gain a foothold in the Pacific against China.
During a press briefing in Nuku’alofa, Beck remarked that these are significant topics requiring leadership deliberation. He mentioned that the forum’s original basis from 1971 was to include sovereign self-governing states, aimed at aligning with international laws and the UN Charter.
Beck acknowledged the presence of various non-independent countries within the organization, prompting discussions about potentially reforming the Pacific Community to represent political interests and allow territories to engage and learn.
Former Guam Congressman Robert Underwood advocated for Guam’s inclusion in PIF discussions, arguing that it is essential not just for territorial representation but also for Guam to realize its potential within the Pacific. He pointed out that while some in Guam might emphasize what they can offer to the PIF, the more compelling reason is the opportunities for growth and perspective that come from being part of the regional dialogue.
Underwood criticized the existing narratives surrounding the exclusion of U.S. territories from the PIF. He expressed confidence that as Guam and its counterparts become more aware of their capabilities, their engagement in the region would not only benefit themselves but the Pacific as a whole.