The 6th Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers Meeting took place in Seoul from December 8 to 9, 2025, focusing on enhancing collaboration under the theme “Partnerships for a Resilient, Peaceful, and Prosperous Pacific.” This meeting was significant as it included all members of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), reinforcing the principles of unity and solidarity emphasized in the Blue Pacific Principles for Dialogue and Engagement and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Co-chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, Hyun Cho, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands, Peter Shanel Agovaka, the biennial meeting aimed to bolster political dialogue and partnerships among the participating nations. The delegation also included prominent leaders such as Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, the President of New Caledonia, Alcide Ponga, Niue’s Prime Minister Dalton Talelagi, and Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo.
In a joint statement issued after the meeting, participants acknowledged the importance of Korea-PIF relations, particularly Korea’s support for the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which emphasizes inclusive development, trade, investment, and regional solidarity. Agovaka highlighted that the partnership is built on shared values and a commitment to the welfare of Pacific peoples, stating that results reflect a joint commitment to protecting ocean resources and regional stability.
Korean Foreign Minister Hyun emphasized the essence of solidarity within the Pacific Islands Forum, reiterating Korea’s commitment to maintaining consultative mechanisms for more structured collaboration. He noted that the Pacific must continue to be a space characterized by coexistence, harmony, and cooperation.
Korea recognized the Pacific Islands Forum as the region’s central political platform, acknowledging outcomes from the PIF Leaders Meeting held in Honiara in September. The meeting highlighted achievements such as the creation of the Pacific Resilience Facility and the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace declaration. Korea announced plans to contribute to the Pacific Resilience Facility in the coming year.
Addressing climate action, Ministers emphasized the need for urgent global efforts and welcomed Korea’s proactive stance on climate issues. They supported Korea’s newly announced 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in line with the 1.5°C climate goal. The significance of sustainable ocean governance was also stressed, alongside appreciation for Korea’s involvement in addressing illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing through the Korea-PIF Cooperation Fund.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhance cultural exchanges and cooperation in areas such as innovation, digital connectivity, and trade. The Ministers expressed their enthusiasm for Korea’s initiative to co-host the 4th United Nations Ocean Conference with Chile in 2028, seeing it as a crucial opportunity to amplify Pacific leadership and promote global investment in ocean protection.
Since its inception in 2011, the Korea-Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers Meeting has steadily progressed, with the next convening scheduled for 2027, showcasing a bright outlook for future collaborations in the Pacific region.
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