Pacific Islands Forum Leaders have reaffirmed their dedication to swiftly finalizing all pending maritime boundaries and continental shelf submissions, viewing this as crucial to safeguarding sovereignty and resources amidst rising sea levels. Their commitment underscores the importance of establishing legal certainty and permanence for maritime zones to withstand the challenges posed by climate change. This proactive stance is aimed at protecting ocean resources and securing the future of the Blue Pacific Continent for generations to come.
The Forum praised the efforts of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau for successfully amending treaties concerning maritime boundaries. Leaders encouraged other members to integrate the 2021 Declaration on Preserving Maritime Zones into national agreements and laws. Despite these advancements, several disputes remain unresolved across the Pacific, such as Fiji and Tonga’s contention over the Minerva Reefs and unfinalized boundaries involving Fiji, Vanuatu, and other regions.
Leaders highlighted the urgency of addressing overfishing, biodiversity loss, and pollution, advocating for regional unity and collective action. They noted progress within the Ocean and Environment Thematic Area and reinforced the importance of agreements like the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty. Furthermore, they reiterated support for a globally binding treaty on managing plastics from production to disposal.
The forum also discussed deep-sea minerals, with a focus on a member-led regional approach. They tasked officials with creating an implementation plan for ongoing collaboration, reflecting the emphasis on sustainable ocean management and strengthening regional unity.
The meeting of Pacific leaders underscores the region’s commitment to addressing ocean governance challenges collaboratively and advancing a sustainable future. Their efforts signal hope for securing a prosperous and resilient future for the Blue Pacific Continent. Through regional solidarity and decisive actions, Pacific leaders aim to set a global benchmark in ocean management while bolstering resilience against the impacts of climate change.
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