European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, met with leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Tonga to discuss the future of the Pacific protocol of the Samoa Agreement. Signed in November 2023, this agreement outlines the European Union’s collaboration with 79 nations in the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States.
The protocol aims to enhance on-the-ground collaboration, promote the blue economy, and bolster environmental protection and climate resilience. Commissioner Urpilainen emphasized the importance of strong partnerships during times of geopolitical tension, noting that the ongoing collaboration between Pacific Island countries and the EU is a successful model.
During her visit, the Commissioner highlighted the need for stronger relations to maximize impact and discussed the significance of the Global Gateway investment strategy in promoting development and sustainability in the region. She reaffirmed the solidarity of the EU with Pacific Island nations on global issues, particularly in areas like climate action and ocean governance.
Urpilainen’s agenda in Tonga included bilateral meetings with representatives of partner countries and development organizations to align cooperation priorities and utilize the EU’s Global Gateway strategy for sustainable growth.
Several key announcements were made to support a resilient future for the Pacific, including the full disbursement of €1.2 million for Vanuatu’s climate-resilient development, a €1 million Technical Assistance program for Tonga’s energy reforms, and a €3.1 million budget support initiative for Samoa to improve water resilience.
Additionally, Kiribati will receive €2.5 million for the feasibility studies of a new multipurpose port aimed at economic development. The Commissioner also visited a EU-funded Climate and WASH Resilience Community Project, which assists vulnerable households in preparing for climate risks.
Engaging with youth and civil society, Urpilainen stressed the importance of young people’s roles in policy-making and announced initiatives such as the EU Youth Empowerment Fund and the upcoming EU Youth Sounding Board for the Pacific. Her commitment stemmed from her background in education and advocacy for youth rights and empowerment.
The Samoa Agreement covers 106 nations and approximately 1.5 billion people, establishing a partnership framework that focuses on environmental sustainability, economic development, ocean governance, security, and human rights, aligning closely with the PIF 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.