Prime Minister Sitiven Rabuka emphasized the significance of unity among Pacific nations during the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting held in Tonga. He stated that a unified Pacific voice is powerful, declaring, “Our unity is our dignity and strength.”
In his speech at the Forum Leaders Plenary Session, Rabuka highlighted the multitude of existential security threats facing the region, including the climate crisis, epidemics, terrorism, transnational organized crime, and challenges related to labor mobility, economic fragility, and the decline of democratic norms while navigating competing geopolitical interests.
Rabuka noted that the Pacific has undergone significant changes over the past two decades, asserting that security today, as described in the Boe Declaration, extends beyond military aspects to encompass human security, economic stability, health, housing, law and order, and the pressing issue of rising sea levels due to climate change.
He pointed out that, given their relative isolation and small size, these challenges are particularly daunting for Pacific nations, but emphasized that collective action is essential for hope and progress.
In addressing unity, Rabuka remarked on the dynamics within families, acknowledging that even among close members, differing perspectives exist. He stated, “The reason we argue is because we care so much for one another that we will not let anything slip through.” He concluded by asserting that nothing should divide the nations of the Pacific, not even the threat of rising sea levels.