“Pacific Leaders Unite Against Climate Crisis”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has described climate change as the “cruellest and harshest” threat to the Pacific region, emphasizing that the slow pace of global action exacerbates instability, displacement, and insecurity. Speaking at the Political Leaders on Climate Security panel during the Pacific Regional and National Security Conference in Suva, he articulated the urgent challenges facing communities already impacted by extreme weather events.

“Climate change is the single greatest threat to our people, our peace, and our Pacific way of life,” Prasad asserted. He urged for immediate and urgent commitments to global climate finance, warning that the adaptability window is rapidly closing for many Pacific communities, and for some, it may already be too late. Loss and damage finance, according to him, is a critical necessity rather than a luxury.

Prasad pointed out the significant financial burden climate disasters place on the region, emphasizing that rebuilding vital infrastructure after such events costs a fortune. He noted, “This cannot be our new normal,” and stressed that developed nations are fulfilling less than 10 percent of their required commitments.

In advocating for a more sustainable future, Professor Prasad proposed the creation of a regional development bank to promote investment in disaster preparedness, adaptation, and relocation strategies. He also expressed support for Australia hosting COP31 in partnership with Pacific nations, viewing it as an opportune moment for global leaders to engage with the tangible realities of climate impacts faced by the region.

Highlighting the importance of regional integration, he reinforced the need for a visa-free Blue Pacific, which could facilitate collective efforts in climate adaptation and marine protection. “There can be no peace in the Pacific without climate risk being mainstreamed across everything we do,” Prasad said.

This conference, which gathers Pacific leaders, climate scientists, and security experts, aims to address the cascading threats posed by climate change to national and regional stability. The ongoing dialogues and proposed initiatives reflect a growing understanding and commitment to create a sustainable future, fostering hope for collaborative solutions that can effectively address the pressing climate issues in the Pacific.

The proactive measures and calls for unity from leaders like Professor Prasad indicate a resilient outlook, with aspirations that continued international focus and cooperation can significantly benefit the vulnerable Pacific nations as they navigate these challenges.