At the US-Pacific Investment Summit in Honolulu, Hawai’i, Pacific Islands Forum chair Jeremiah Manele addressed delegates about the importance of fostering economic opportunities for the region’s youth. He emphasized that the young population of the Pacific seeks to thrive at home rather than migrating abroad in search of prospects.
Manele highlighted the necessity for Pacific economies to gain fair access to global markets. He underscored the critical importance of trade access, labor mobility, and technology partnerships. Moreover, he pointed out that access to climate finance is essential, particularly in an efficient manner that can create significant impacts.
He called for reforms in global financial systems, stressing the importance of recognizing multidimensional vulnerabilities in addition to income. “These are challenges the Pacific Islands Forum is steadfastly pursuing with partners, including the U.S.,” Manele noted, emphasizing the need for alignment with regional priorities through cooperative frameworks.
Manele asserted that shared prosperity requires active participation from the Pacific in shaping solutions, referencing the Pacific Roadmap on Economic Development, which outlines collective economic priorities and highlights areas for potential collaboration and support from partners.
Looking ahead, he urged for engagement rooted in transparency, mutual respect, and long-term commitments that facilitate impactful, people-centered development. He stated, “We seek targeted, effective, and sustainable partnerships that can drive the advancement of our regional priorities.”
He concluded by affirming that the future prosperity of the Pacific region will increasingly rely not solely on governmental efforts but also on the dynamism and resilience of partnerships in investment and security. The agenda of the summit represents a vital opportunity to foster continuous dialogue among partners bound by shared history and a commitment to a peaceful and resilient Pacific. The message is hopeful, aimed at enhancing cooperation for a thriving future in the region.
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