Mark Brown, the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), has called on Foreign Affairs Ministers from the region, who convened in Suva last Friday, to refrain from relying on the goodwill of others. In his opening remarks as chair of the 2024 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, Brown highlighted the increasing geostrategic interests impacting the region.
He emphasized the ongoing climate crisis, which is worsening year by year, along with emerging challenges such as cyber-attacks and transnational crime. Brown stressed the importance of regional solidarity, urging members to respond collectively whenever one of them is in need.
Brown expressed his satisfaction at the opportunity to discuss ways to strengthen their shared priorities amidst these challenges. He highlighted that it is crucial for the region to be more strategic and assertive in its collective engagement to achieve their shared vision for 2050.
He encouraged open and constructive discussions, stating, “This is our space; let’s make the most of it.” As he approaches the end of his term as chair, Brown expressed gratitude to the ministers for their cooperation and support during his leadership of the PIF. He regarded it as an honor to fulfill this role and acknowledged the collaborative spirit over the past 18 months.