Prime Minister Sitiven Rabuka addressed the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting in Tonga, emphasizing the importance of a united Pacific voice. He stated, “Our unity is our dignity and strength,” during his speech at the Forum Leaders Plenary Session.
Rabuka highlighted the numerous existential security threats currently facing the Pacific region, including the climate crisis, epidemics, terrorism, and transnational organized crime, as well as issues like labor mobility, economic fragility, and the decline of democracy amid competing geopolitical interests. He remarked that the Pacific has transformed significantly over the past two decades.
According to Rabuka, security today, as outlined in the Boe Declaration, transcends traditional military definitions and encompasses human security, economic stability, health, housing, law enforcement, and climate concerns such as rising sea levels. He noted that the relative isolation and small size of Pacific nations make these challenges particularly daunting, but stressed the importance of collective action.
He acknowledged that even families have differing viewpoints and desires, stating, “The reason we argue is because we care so much for one another that we will not let anything slip through.” He concluded with a strong message that nothing, including rising sea levels, should divide the Pacific nations.