The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has proposed the establishment of a formal alliance among Pacific Island nations to address escalating maritime security concerns. During the Maritime Security Conference at the Grand Pacific Hotel, he introduced the concept of the “Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States” (OASIS), designed to combat issues like illegal fishing, transnational crime, and the impacts of climate change.
Mr. Tikoduadua emphasized the deep connection Pacific Islanders have with the ocean, noting that their food sources, economic stability, and overall well-being hinge on maritime security. He called for urgent measures to safeguard the region’s maritime environment.
Highlighting the strategic significance of the Blue Pacific, he pointed out the increasing geopolitical tensions involving China and the United States, which have put Fiji and its neighboring countries in the spotlight. He underscored the need for the Pacific region to take charge of its resources to secure a sustainable future.
British High Commissioner Brian Jones supported the Minister’s views, emphasizing that maritime security extends beyond surface threats to include the seabed, data cables, and satellites essential for modern shipping operations.
Furthermore, Munkhtuya Altangerel, the UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office, pointed out the importance of empowering local maritime communities, making them the first line of defense against threats across the vast Pacific Ocean. She argued that well-supported and resilient communities could act as crucial observers against potential threats.
The two-day conference brought together representatives from various government agencies, King’s College London, and other stakeholders, aiming to enhance collaboration and explore ways to protect Fiji’s maritime territories for both current and future generations.