In Honiara, Solomon Islands, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele inaugurated the Pacific ACP Leaders Meeting with a call for unity, stronger advocacy, and urgent climate action as the region gears up for significant global discussions. In his opening remarks, Manele commended Tonga for its leadership on initiatives such as the Samoa Agreement, Pacific climate diplomacy at COP28 and COP29, and the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF).
Highlighting the Samoa Agreement signed in 2023, Manele described it as a renewed framework setting the stage for enhanced collaboration with European partners. He noted that these initiatives are critical to ensuring that the Pacific’s survival agenda remains central in global conversations, especially as preparations move forward for COP30 and ambitions to co-host COP31 with Australia.
The inaugural gathering was marked by an emphasis on finance and representation. Manele highlighted the importance of establishing a Pacific Assistant Secretary-General at the OACPS Secretariat as a means to ensure the Pacific’s voice is heard in Brussels. Stressing fairness in financing, he noted that the Pacific is not just seeking resources but equity that reflects both vulnerabilities and responsibilities.
The discussions also centered on maintaining solidarity within the OACPS and EU engagements, positioning the Blue Pacific to speak with a unified voice. Manele emphasized the Pacific ACP Leaders Meeting is not merely procedural, but a step toward a collective path forward, highlighting the significance of the Samoa Agreement and the 2050 Strategy.
Similar discussions in the Pacific region have reiterated the call for regional unity, climate resilience, and economic sustainability. Past meetings, such as those in Suva and during the Post-COP29 briefings, have echoed the sentiment of Pacific leaders demanding action and accountability from major polluting countries, stressing the importance of climate justice and resilience funding.
The emphasis on regional unity and the critical nature of climate action showcases a forward-thinking approach, positioning the Pacific as a key player in global discussions. By uniting around common goals and strengthening their influence on the world stage, Pacific nations aim to secure better outcomes for their people and their environments. The solidarity and proactive stance of the Pacific leaders underline their commitment to a sustainable and resilient future, underscoring the potential for significant progress as global negotiations continue.
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