Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that Pacific Island Leaders have assigned the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, in collaboration with Fiji, to draft an Ocean of Peace Declaration. This declaration will be reviewed by leaders during the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, set to take place in Honiara, Solomon Islands, in 2025.
In his Ministerial Statement to Parliament regarding the recent 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, Rabuka emphasized the significance of the principles associated with the Oceans of Peace concept. One key principle advocates for the implementation of a code of conduct, especially in light of the challenges posed by drugs and related crimes affecting the region.
Rabuka noted that the Pacific Policing Initiative plays a crucial role in the Oceans of Peace, as fostering peace is integral to promoting behavioral change. This initiative includes plans for establishing regional training centers of excellence and a standing multinational deployable force.
Additionally, the Prime Minister pointed out the establishment of the first Pacific-led, member-owned, and people-centered climate and disaster resilience financing facility, which will be based in Tonga. He mentioned that Australia has committed AU$100 million, Saudi Arabia has pledged US$50 million, China is contributing US$500,000, the United States has offered US$25 million, and the United Kingdom will provide technical support worth 1.3 million euros.