Climate change poses a significant threat, particularly to the Pacific Islands, which are increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters that endanger lives and livelihoods. The urgency of addressing climate change and its impacts was a focal point during the recent Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM10) held in Tokyo from July 16 to 18.
Leaders from Japan and Pacific Island nations discussed a shared commitment to enhance the region’s climate resilience. The dialogue highlighted Japan’s dedication to supporting Pacific nations in various crucial areas such as disaster risk management, maritime security, economic development, and cybersecurity.
Professor Izumi Kobayashi from Osaka Gakuin University remarked that PALM10 represents the culmination of Japan’s long-term cooperation with Pacific nations. This collaboration is seen as vital for fostering peace and development in the region.
At the meeting, leaders emphasized a partnership based on mutual trust and the concept of ‘kizuna,’ which refers to deep and enduring bonds. This partnership aligns with the Pacific Islands Forum’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, established in 2022, which identifies climate change as the primary threat to the region.
One significant initiative launched during the summit was the Pacific Climate Resilience Initiative, aimed at utilizing Japanese financial and technological resources to bolster disaster risk reduction efforts and promote decarbonization in Pacific Island nations. This initiative builds on Japan’s existing support, including its partnership with the Pacific Climate Change Centre in Samoa.
Japan is also engaged in assisting five Pacific nations—Fiji, Tuvalu, Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, and Palau—by enhancing their energy infrastructure and planning capacity. People-to-people exchanges and human resource development, benefiting over 6,500 individuals over the next three years, were also pledged by Japan at PALM10.
Various collaborative initiatives were discussed, including Japan’s participation in the International Naval Review in Tonga and support for Fiji through advanced warning and disaster management services. Moreover, Japan reaffirmed its commitment to providing patrol boats, fisheries research vessels, and infrastructure support to several Pacific nations.
Professor Kobayashi noted that the agreements made at PALM10 have further solidified the trust built over previous meetings. Regular communication among Japan and its partners outside of the PALM gatherings is essential to maximize the benefits of their commitments.
The Leaders’ Declaration underlined the shared values of global peace, stability, democracy, and respect for international law. It reiterated the importance of a free and open international order, protecting the rights and sovereignty of all nations regardless of size or power.
Since its inception in 1997, the PALM process has showcased the commitment of Japan to advance together with the Blue Pacific nations, reinforcing the idea of collective action in the face of climate change and other challenges.