Mark Brown, the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), has called on Foreign Affairs Ministers from the region, who convened in Suva on Friday, to stop relying on the goodwill of others. In his opening remarks at the 2024 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, Brown highlighted the increasing geostrategic interests that the region faces.
“We continue to battle a climate crisis that intensifies every year,” Brown noted. He emphasized the necessity of addressing new challenges, including cyber-attacks and transnational crime, while strengthening political solidarity among member nations. He underlined the significance of collective unity, stating that when one member calls for assistance, the Forum must be ready to respond as a united front.
Brown expressed his satisfaction that the ministers were taking time to discuss ways to effectively enhance regional priorities. He stressed the need to move beyond complacency and to engage more strategically and assertively in collaborations. “If we are to attain our shared 2050 vision, we must ensure that our partners are aligned with our priorities and aspirations,” he asserted.
He urged the ministers to engage in frank and constructive discussions, making the most of the opportunity at hand. As he nears the end of his tenure as chair, Brown acknowledged the support and cooperation of his colleagues over the past 18 months, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him by the Forum membership. He described it as an honor and privilege to have served in this capacity.