The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has urged for the establishment of a formal alliance among Pacific Island nations to address the increasing maritime security issues. During his address at the Maritime Security Conference at the Grand Pacific Hotel, he proposed the formation of the “Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States” (OASIS), aimed at safeguarding the region against threats such as illegal fishing, transnational crime, and climate change impacts.
Mr. Tikoduadua emphasized the deep connection Pacific inhabitants have with the ocean, linking their food, economic security, and overall well-being to maritime safety. He underscored the necessity for proactive measures to protect the region’s maritime interests.
Highlighting the geopolitical significance of the Blue Pacific, he pointed out that competition between China and the United States, along with their allies, has put Fiji and its neighboring countries in a prominent position.
The Minister called for the Pacific nations to take control over their resources and act decisively to secure their futures. His sentiments were supported by British High Commissioner, Brian Jones, who noted the multifaceted nature of maritime security, which includes concerns beyond just surface waters, involving the seabed and data cables essential for global communications.
Munkhtuya Altangerel, the UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office, stressed the importance of empowering local maritime communities as the “first line of defense” against potential threats in the expansive Pacific Ocean. She stated that well-empowered communities could serve as vigilant protectors, potentially deterring adversaries.
The two-day Maritime Security Conference saw participation from various government agencies, King’s College London, and additional stakeholders, all aimed at fostering collaboration and exploring sustainable measures to protect Fiji’s maritime zones for the benefit of both current and future generations.