The 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) wrapped up on Friday with expressions of gratitude, ceremonial gift exchanges, and a celebration that reflected Tonga’s renowned hospitality. The week was marked by a warm welcome, intense negotiations, and discussions addressing crucial regional matters.
Tonga’s Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku took on the Chairmanship of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) for the year 2024, following Tonga’s hosting of the gathering from August 26 to 30. The selected theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” resonated with leaders across Oceania, emphasizing the necessity for integrated resilience in response to climate change, economic development, and improvement in health and education.
Both the outgoing and incoming chairmen highlighted a key message: the need to transition from merely discussing policies to implementing them. Chairman Hu’akavameiliku emphasized the urgency of action, referencing the newly established 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and its Implementation Plan.
Implementation also involves addressing the climate crisis more actively and demanding accountability from developed nations for their contributions to this crisis. The eventful first day of meetings coincided with heavy rainfall and flooding in some areas of Tonga, underscoring the real threats posed by climate change. Nevertheless, the discussions continued with a focus on proactive solutions.
One significant outcome of the PIFLM was the endorsement of the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), which Tonga will host. This facility aims to assist nations in managing losses and damage related to climate change, while also implementing preventive measures. The PRF is the first Pacific-led and member-owned climate resilience financing body.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed support for the capitalisation of the PRF. Tonga’s Minister of Finance reported that the facility has garnered approximately US$137 million in pledges, including contributions from Australia, the United States, and Nauru, but pointed out that the goal should reach US$1.5 billion to adequately address climate goals.
Faced with regional challenges, leaders in Tonga stressed unity in confronting issues such as corruption. However, there were critical questions about the purpose of this solidarity. Demonstrators expressed anger against Japan’s release of nuclear wastewater into the Pacific Ocean, calling for leaders to prioritize this and deep-sea mining concerns during their meetings.
The discussions also highlighted the need for an “Ocean of Peace.” A regional policing initiative was discussed, leading to agreements that will be ratified in Honiara during the 2025 PIFLM.
Concern over the unrest in the French territory of New Caledonia was also a key agenda item. A monitoring mission planned by several Prime Ministers was postponed but will proceed with new terms after the forum.
In the aftermath of the PIFLM, the final communique raised issues regarding Taiwan. A previous version reaffirming relations with the Republic of China was quickly retracted, causing debates about China’s influence over the regional forum. Experts noted that this alteration demonstrates a potential strategy by China to create divisions among Pacific allies, while Taiwan’s remaining diplomatic partners voiced their commitment to preserving Taiwan’s status.