Unity and leadership are vital for regional development in the Pacific Islands, according to Baron Waqa, the Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). He emphasized this point while addressing Foreign Ministers from 18 PIF member countries during the annual Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting in Suva.
Waqa highlighted that the strength of the Forum lies in its unity and centrality, which will thrive through collective solidarity. He noted the importance of receiving guidance during this transitional period, stressing that dialogue among Forum members on shared priorities and challenges is essential amid increasing geostrategic competition.
He urged the ministers to engage in open discussions to ensure they present leaders with strong, decisive outcomes. The meeting’s agenda covered significant topics, including a review of the regional architecture and the Forum’s partnership mechanisms. Ministers also discussed items related to regional peace and security, the progress on the 2050 Strategy, climate change initiatives, and overall regional security.