Mark Brown, the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), urged Foreign Affairs Ministers from the region, who convened in Suva on Friday, to refrain from relying solely on the goodwill of others. During his opening address at the 2024 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, Brown highlighted the growing geostrategic interests in the region.
“We continue to face a climate crisis that escalates each year,” he stated. He also emphasized that the region must confront new challenges, including cyber-attacks and transnational crime. Strengthening political solidarity among member states is vital, he noted, so that the forum can effectively respond when one member calls for assistance.
Brown stressed the necessity of collective solidarity and expressed satisfaction that the ministers were dedicating time to examine ways to enhance shared priorities and progress.
“We can no longer rely on past successes and the goodwill of others. To achieve our shared 2050 vision, we must adopt a more strategic and assertive approach in our collective endeavors,” he remarked, encouraging participants to ensure that partners align with the region’s priorities and aspirations.
He urged all ministers to engage in open, constructive, and honest discussions during the meeting, emphasizing the importance of making the most of the opportunity. As he neared the conclusion of his term as forum chair, Brown expressed gratitude for the collaboration of the ministers and acknowledged their support throughout his tenure. He conveyed that it had been an honor for him and his government to lead the Pacific Islands Forum during this time.