Tonga, ranked as the sixth most climate vulnerable nation globally, is hosting Pacific leaders this week. The nation drew international attention in 2021 following the devastating eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha-apai Volcano, which resulted in numerous deaths, injuries, and extensive infrastructure damage.
Since that disaster, Tonga has faced several cyclones, leading to a public debt exceeding 40% of its GDP. These fiscal pressures hinder the country’s progress toward achieving global development goals (SDGs) and limit its capacity to respond to future climate emergencies. Like many Pacific nations, Tonga requires a robust strategy to tackle the challenges posed by a world experiencing a temperature increase of over 1.5 degrees Celsius.
During the 53rd meeting of the Blue Pacific leaders, Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavemeiliku Siaosi Sovaleni will strategically shape the region’s priorities. He aims to lead with wisdom and inclusivity, considering the diverse perspectives of his fellow leaders.
Tonga has articulated a vision for a transformative and resilient Pacific, emphasizing the need for collective action to enhance resilience throughout the region now, during this critical decade. The effectiveness of regional leadership and partnerships will be essential in mobilizing resources for the Pacific’s recovery and future resilience.
The leaders’ agenda includes discussing the associate membership of Guam and American Samoa in the Forum, a move that signals a stronger U.S. presence in Pacific affairs. This recognition of the U.S. as a Pacific power is seen as a commendable shift, albeit delayed.
Pacific leaders also seek a pathway and timeline for New Caledonia’s decolonization, with discussions leaning toward setting time-bound steps to ensure peaceful progress. The sub-group of leaders may advocate for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) to play a more prominent role in overseeing this process.
Additionally, the leaders will take steps to activate the Pacific Resilience Facility, address the issue of transnational crime, and discuss various ongoing initiatives, including the implementation of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific.
This assembly occurs during a challenging geopolitical climate, with ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine overshadowing international discourse. The intensifying geopolitical competition across the Pacific region presents significant challenges, particularly in maritime rights and resource management.
Leaders understand the heightened risk of misunderstandings and potential conflicts arising from superpower interactions. The voices of small island nations have become increasingly quiet in international forums where major decisions are made, where the interests of larger states often dominate discussions.
As chair, Tonga has the responsibility to revitalize Pacific diplomacy, addressing critical policy issues that extend beyond the region.
With the world possibly having crossed the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming threshold, this meeting may be one of the first to occur under these new and challenging circumstances, significantly impacting the Pacific’s future. The 1.5 Celsius target is a crucial benchmark for climate stability, with any increase complicating adaptation efforts and raising costs.
Pacific finance ministers have expressed concern about their limited fiscal capacity to address climate-related damages while continuing to advance development goals. The urgency for international commitments to combat climate change and support Pacific nations is paramount.
Ultimately, Pacific leaders must unequivocally state that a failure to meet climate commitments under the Paris Agreement represents a direct threat to their states. The region requires lasting partnerships based on genuine commitment rather than temporary assistance.
The leaders aim to advance the Pacific Resilience Facility, seeking substantial international financial support to facilitate a self-managed climate response, thereby safeguarding regional sovereignty.
They will also need to clarify their joint demands for climate funding, advocating for a significant increase in financial resources to meet their urgent needs.
As the Pacific community welcomes Uto ni Yalo from Fiji, there is hope for a renewed focus on the Blue Economy, emphasizing the importance of maritime resources and potential declarations for its peaceful management.
Looking ahead, many leaders will gather at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. There is an opportunity for collaborative advocacy for significant reforms in international financial systems, aiming for equitable treatment of small island states in a digitally interconnected world.
This pivotal meeting for the Pacific Islands holds immense significance, and I extend my best wishes to the Chair and all leaders as they navigate these critical discussions. The stakes for Pacific Islanders could not be higher.