The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has proposed the formation of a formal alliance among Pacific Island nations to address escalating maritime security issues. During his address at the Maritime Security Conference held at the Grand Pacific Hotel, the Minister introduced the idea of an “Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States” (OASIS), designed to combat threats such as illegal fishing, transnational crime, and the impacts of climate change.
Mr. Tikoduadua emphasized the deep connection Pacific Islanders have with the ocean, outlining how their food security, economic stability, and overall well-being are closely tied to maritime security. He called for urgent action to safeguard the region’s maritime interests.
He also pointed out the strategic significance of the Blue Pacific, noting that the geopolitical rivalry between China and the United States, as well as their allies, has increasingly put Fiji and neighboring countries in the spotlight. The Minister stressed the necessity for the Pacific to take control of its resources and to act decisively for its future security.
The British High Commissioner, Brian Jones, supported the Minister’s viewpoint, discussing the evolving nature of maritime security. He explained that maritime security extends beyond just the surface of the sea, encompassing the seabed, data cables, and the satellites crucial for contemporary shipping.
Additionally, Munkhtuya Altangerel, UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office, underscored the importance of empowering local maritime communities as the initial barriers against threats in the expansive Pacific Ocean. She stated that well-empowered communities would be more effective in protecting their waters.
The two-day Maritime Security Conference, attended by representatives from various government agencies, King’s College London, and other stakeholders, aims to foster cooperation among government bodies and explore ways to sustain and protect Fiji’s maritime areas for current and future generations.