Members of the Pacific Islands Forum Vow to Stand Together in Addressing Economic and Climate Challenges
The Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting this year focused heavily on the risks faced by small, low-lying island nations in the Pacific due to climate change. The leaders agreed that “integrated resilience” is crucial to overcoming the challenges in the region.
The communique issued at the end of the meeting highlighted the grave risks posed by climate change and environmental degradation. The leaders emphasized the importance of solidarity in addressing various challenges such as economic growth, sustainable development, resource management, and partnerships.
Health facilities in the region face challenges due to their proximity to coastlines, with 62 percent located within 500 meters. To address this issue, the Forum introduced a plan called the Climate Resilient and Environmentally Sustainable Health Care Facilities (CRESHCF) and called for international support.
The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to the Pacific Resilience Facility as a key financing facility for climate and disaster resilience. They urged dialogue partners to contribute to the fund to meet its financial goals.
Geopolitical issues were also discussed, with the leaders emphasizing the need for collective efforts amid evolving strategic environments. The leaders tasked the PIF’s secretariat to develop a draft declaration on the “Ocean of Peace” concept for the next Forum in 2025.
Overall, the meeting highlighted the importance of addressing climate change, enhancing resilience, and fostering regional cooperation to tackle the challenges faced by Pacific nations.
