Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has emphasized the need for Pacific-led strategies to enhance investment and security partnerships following the conclusion of the Pacific Agenda: Investment, Security and Shared Prosperity Summit in Honolulu. In his closing remarks at the two-day event held at the East-West Centre, Prime Minister Manele asserted that investment and security are vital components necessary for achieving sustainable prosperity across the Pacific region.
As the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, Manele underscored the importance of addressing regional priorities through a comprehensive understanding of the Pacific context, calling for solutions that are designed and executed with the involvement of Pacific Island nations at their core. He pointed out that several key frameworks, including the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, the Pacific Roadmap on Economic Development, and the Ocean of Peace Declaration, are already established to guide collective efforts in the region. He stressed that mechanisms like the Forum Economic Ministers Dialogue are essential in supporting national development objectives.
During his remarks, the Prime Minister highlighted the need to transform the dialogue from the Summit into tangible and sustainable outcomes that strengthen partnerships with the United States. He recognized the contributions of the Pacific Islands Development Programme in facilitating regional coordination and expressed enthusiasm for ongoing engagement through future processes involving Pacific Island leaders.
Additionally, Manele advocated for the creation of a Pacific Trade and Invest Office in the United States, which he believes would enhance connectivity between Pacific economies and global trade and investment opportunities. He acknowledged the leadership of United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau for bringing the Summit together in collaboration with the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the East-West Center.
In concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Manele extended his gratitude to fellow Pacific leaders, government officials, private sector stakeholders, and all participants for their active involvement and contributions throughout the Summit, underscoring a collective commitment to foster growth and cooperation in the Pacific region.
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