Prime Minister Sitiven Rabuka addressed the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting in Tonga, emphasizing the power of a united Pacific voice. He stated, “Our unity is our dignity and strength.” During his remarks at the Forum Leaders Plenary Session, Rabuka highlighted the existential security threats facing the region, including the climate crisis, epidemics, terrorism, organized crime, labor mobility issues, economic instability, and the challenge of upholding democracy amid competing geopolitical interests.
He pointed out that the dynamics of the Pacific have changed significantly over the past two decades. According to the Boe Declaration, security now encompasses not just military concerns but also issues of human security, economic well-being, health, housing, law and order, and the impacts of rising sea levels and climate change.
Rabuka expressed that the isolation and small size of Pacific nations make these challenges formidable, with hope resting in their collective strength. He likened the relationships within Pacific communities to that of families, noting that differing perspectives and desires often lead to arguments out of care and concern for one another. He concluded by stressing that nothing, not even rising sea levels, should divide them.