Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that Pacific Island Leaders have directed the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, in partnership with Fiji, to draft an Ocean of Peace Declaration. This draft will be reviewed by Leaders at the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, scheduled for 2025 in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
In a Ministerial Statement delivered in Parliament regarding the recent 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, Rabuka emphasized the significance of the principles associated with the Oceans of Peace initiative. He noted that one of these principles advocates for the establishment of a code of conduct, highlighting the ongoing issues related to drugs and crime that affect the region.
“The Pacific Policing Initiative is a key component of the Oceans of Peace,” Rabuka stated. He stressed the need for peace to translate into behavioral improvements, mentioning that the initiative includes the creation of regional training centers of excellence and a standing multi-national deployable force.
Additionally, the Prime Minister pointed out the establishment of the first Pacific-led, member-owned, managed, and community-focused climate and disaster resilience financing facility, which will be located in Tonga. He also shared that several countries have committed financial support for this facility: Australia has pledged AU$100 million, Saudi Arabia US$50 million, China has committed US$500,000, the United States US$25 million, and the United Kingdom will provide technical support valued at 1.3 million euros.