The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has proposed the establishment of a formal alliance among Pacific Island nations to address increasing maritime security issues. During the Maritime Security Conference held at the Grand Pacific Hotel, he introduced the concept of the “Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States” (OASIS), which aims to protect the region from threats such as illegal fishing, transnational crime, and climate change impacts.
Mr. Tikoduadua emphasized the deep connection Pacific inhabitants have with the ocean, stating that their food, economic security, and overall well-being are closely tied to maritime safety. He urged for immediate action to safeguard their maritime territories.
He also highlighted the strategic significance of the Blue Pacific, noting that the geopolitical rivalry between China and the United States, along with their respective allies, has put Fiji and its neighboring countries under greater scrutiny. The Minister underscored the necessity for the Pacific region to take ownership of its resources and ensure its future security.
Support for his statements was echoed by British High Commissioner Brian Jones, who remarked on the shifting dynamics of maritime security. He pointed out that maritime safety concerns extend beyond the surface waters to the seabed, data cables, and satellites essential for modern shipping.
Munkhtuya Altangerel, the UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office, also stressed the importance of empowering local maritime communities, describing them as the “first line of defense” against threats in the vast Pacific Ocean. She asserted that if these communities are strong, flourishing, and dignified, potential adversaries would think twice before acting against them.
The two-day Maritime Security Conference, which brought together representatives from various government agencies, King’s College London, and other stakeholders, seeks to foster collaboration among these organizations and explore ways to sustain and protect Fiji’s maritime zones for both current and future generations.