The Pacific Islands Forum has announced a significant shift towards the implementation phase of its 2050 Strategy, focusing on concrete actions in the coming years. Deputy Secretary General Esala Nayasi highlighted a crucial development with the ratification of the Pacific Resilience Facility establishment agreement, a milestone achieved by all Forum countries during a meeting in Honiara.
Once eight nations ratify the agreement, the Pacific Resilience Facility is expected to be established in Tonga next year. The facility is designed to address pressing climate change challenges, which Nayasi emphasized remains the region’s top priority. The objective is to finance community-level solutions, enhancing resilience across the islands.
Nayasi revealed that the fund has currently raised $167 million, with an ambitious goal to increase this amount to $500 million in the short term and $1.5 billion in the medium term. He expressed optimism that with the establishment of the facility, the Pacific Islands can achieve these targets and bolster their efforts to combat climate change.
Additionally, efforts are underway to assess partnerships, ensuring that investments align with the 2050 Strategy and effectively coordinate regional initiatives. PIFS Secretary General Baron Waqa stressed the importance of aligning all initiatives with leaders’ decisions and regional priorities, as these plans encompass the entire Pacific region.
Looking ahead, the implementation framework will extend into 2026 and will include updates to the Boe Declaration, ensuring that the diverse needs and priorities of the region are addressed collectively.
This collaborative approach among Pacific Island nations marks a hopeful step towards a resilient and sustainable future, demonstrating commitment and determination to tackle the challenges posed by climate change together.
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