June 11, 2025, has been designated as a day to focus on the Pacific Islands, according to Olivier Poivre d’Arvor, the special envoy of the President of France for the UN Ocean Conference and ambassador for Polar and Maritime Issues. This date will highlight the participation of Pacific Island nations, including Fiji, at the UN Ocean Conference taking place in Nice, France.
Poivre d’Arvor emphasized the importance of Pacific voices being central to the conference discussions. He stated, “Absolutely, they have to be in the centre, and we have to be a bit at the back seat.” He further explained that efforts are being made to ensure that Pacific leaders, young people, and NGOs receive invitations and funding to participate in the event.
The political declaration currently being drafted for the conference will prominently feature the Pacific region, with the aim of recognizing it as the guest of honor. Mr. Poivre d’Arvor confirmed that a special day devoted to the Pacific will include initiatives from various countries in the region, showcased through side events and presentations by leaders.
He reiterated the necessity of Pacific involvement in any ocean-focused conference, stating, “It’s impossible to do a conference on the ocean without you, absolutely impossible.”