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What Pacific Resilience Facility meant to Solomon Islands

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Irwin Angiki
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BY BEN BILUA
FORUM Leaders will endorse the Pacific Resilience Facility Treaty on Wednesday this week.
The Treaty signifies huge achievement at the regional and national level but what is the treaty meant to Solomon Islands and its people?
According to PRF General Manager Finau Soqo funds donated to the Pacific Resilience Facility will support member countries mitigate impact of climate change.
She said PRF provides unique opportunities to build resilience, through upfront investment in preparedness to natural disasters and climate change adaptation to minimise future loss of lives, displacement of people and extensive economic losses.
Sogo adds that the treaty will ensure that development partners and multilateral agencies have a clear legal framework to channel support into climate change initiatives.
Solomon Islands is a member of the forum, meaning, Solomon Islands is eligible to access the fund when it’s ready to support climate change programs and activities in the country.
Background
Following the endorsement of the PRF Treaty at the Special Forum of Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM) in Tonga in March, which endorsed the PRF Treaty for signing, the PRF’s global capitalisation advocacy has been gaining pace.
From the OPEC Fund for International Development SIDS Summit in Vienna in May to the 3rd UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice in June where France pledged EUR2 million to the PRF, the 4th UN Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) in Seville in July to unlock climate financing capital for the Pacific’s first regional climate and disaster resilience financing facility, and to engaging with climate actors and partners at the Pacific Climate Change Roundtable (PCCR) in Samoa in August, the PRF has raised US$162 million in pledges to date.
Member engagement in the PRF has also ramped up as the PRF undertakes PRF Treaty Readiness missions around the Pacific, meeting with government officials and stakeholders in Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Tonga, and Nauru.
The PRF Treaty is earmarked to enter into force by March 2026, demonstrating the Forum Members’ commitment to making climate finance accessible to communities a reality.
In preparation for this, once the PRF Treaty is signed, the PRF is undertaking programming co-design consultations with Members, CSOs, communities, the private sector, implementing partners and other stakeholders, starting with virtual consultations leading up to sub-regional cluster workshops scheduled to be held in the Marshall Islands, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and Kiribati in the fourth quarter of this year.
The Pacific’s message ‘1.5 to Stay Alive and Thrive’ is at the core of the PRF’s mandate, reflecting its $1.5 billion target to help secure a 1.5 °C world as articulated by Forum Leaders.
The PRF Treaty signing paves the way for the formal call for pledges to the PRF to reach its capitalisation target of US$500 million by the end of 2026.
From Honiara, Forum Members will take safe carriage of the PRF to critical high-level global capitalisation advocacy platforms — the 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 80) in New York in September, to the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund in Washington D.C. in October, and onto COP30 in Brazil in November. With operationalisation targeted for 2026, the PRF will play a crucial role in helping communities access climate finance, ensuring no one is left behind.

Pacific ACP chair PM Manele assures members of commitment

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Irwin Angiki
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Chair of the Pacific ACP Leaders Meeting, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said that the government of Solomon Islands is committed to the collective endeavours of all members.
Mr Manele said his government is honoured to host the meeting of Pacific ACP Leaders here in Honiara.
Manele also acknowledged the Kingdom of Tonga, outgoing Pacific ACP chair, for their leadership and support in the work and engagement as PACP states.
He said that further significant progress in realising pacific islands collective priorities was made uunder Tonga’s stewardship.
“The signing of the Samoa Agreement in 2023 set a renewed framework with our European partners. We advanced Pacific climate diplomacy at COP28 and COP29, ensuring our survival agenda remained at the heart of global discussions,” said PM Manele.
He said that Solomon Islands assuming the leadership of the Pacific ACP work, will do so conscious of the responsibility before its member states.
“Our task is to build on this foundation and guide our collective efforts at a time when our Blue Pacific region face heightened challenges, but also new opportunities. For us, representation and influence are paramount. The upcoming appointment of the Pacific’s Assistant Secretary-General at the OACPS Secretariat is a moment for us to stand united,” he said.
He said that this post will give the Pacific not only visibility, but a firmer hand in shaping decisions in Brussels that affect the region’s financing, governance, and implementation of the Samoa Agreement.
“Colleagues, today’s meeting is about more than procedures. It is about charting a way forward together. Let us ensure that in our work with the OACPS and the EU, the Blue Pacific continues to speak with one voice to ensure the successful implementation of the Samoa Agreement, as well as the 2050 Strategy,” he said.
He said that he welcomes and look forward to members continued support and assistance in their work and discussions in the coming months.
“The success of our leadership and representation of our collective will is premised on the spirit of Pacific solidarity, with clarity, urgency, and unity, to assure sustainable benefits, development, and security of our Pacific people,” he said.

SIS & Pacific ACP kick start 54th series PIF meeting

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Small Islands States (SIS) and the leaders of the Pacific ACP convened yesterday, marking the commencement of this year’s 54th series of meetings for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders in Honiara.
The meetings took place in the conference room of the Forum Fisheries Agency.
During the SIS meeting HE Wesley Simina, the outgoing Chair of the Small Island States and President of the Federated States of Micronesia, transferred the chairmanship to HE Taneti Maamau, the president of the Republic of Kiribati.
“Our remoteness and vulnerability do not signify weakness; rather, they serve as enduring reminders of the necessity for the SIS to remain united. Our collective presence underscores that true Pacific solidarity is not measured by averages, but by our capacity to uplift the most vulnerable among us,” stated Simina.
In response to former Chair H.E. Simina, the Chair of SIS expressed his honor in taking on the role of Chair for the Smaller Island States at this significant juncture in their shared journey.
“I appreciate your trust and support in this position. The discussions we engage in today hold significance that extends far beyond this room. They will influence the visibility of the Smaller Island States in the wider Forum discussions this week, and they will convey a message to our partners and the international community,” Maamau said.
The gathering of the Pacific ACP leaders also commenced with the official transfer of the Pacific ACP Leaders chairmanship, moving from Dr. Aisake Eke, Prime Minister of Tonga, to Jeremiah Manele, Prime Minister of Solomon Islands.
“As the Solomon Islands takes on the leadership of our Pacific ACP initiatives, we do so with a keen awareness of the responsibilities that lie ahead.
“On behalf of the Government and the People of the Solomon Islands, I would like to extend a heartfelt welcome to each of you in the Solomon Islands. It is both an honour and a privilege to host this meeting of the Pacific ACP Leaders here in Honiara,” stated the chair of the Pacific ACP Leaders, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.
“Our objective is to build upon this foundation and steer our collective efforts during a time when our Blue Pacific region is confronted with increased challenges, as well as new opportunities,” he added.

President Maamau assumes Chairmanship of Smaller Island States

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BY NED GAGAHE
President Taneti Maamau of Kiribati officially assumed the Chairmanship of the Smaller Island States (SIS) during the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting, which began yesterday in Honiara.
President Maamau succeeded the outgoing Chair, President Wesley Simina of the Federated States of Micronesia, during the SIS meeting—the first official event of Forum Leaders’ Week.
The meeting set the stage for a week of high-level deliberations among the 18 member states of the Pacific Islands Forum.
In his opening remarks, President Maamau expressed deep gratitude and humility in taking on the leadership role.
“It is my deep honour to assume the Chair of the Smaller Island States at this important moment in our collective journey, and I thank you all for your confidence and support in this role,” he said.
He also extended heartfelt condolences to the Republic of the Marshall Islands, following the recent fire that damaged the RMI Parliament and the passing of former President Christopher Loeak.
“We hold you in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time,” he added.
President Maamau emphasised the importance of unity and strategic focus, urging SIS leaders to ensure their voices and priorities continue to be heard and respected within the broader Pacific regional framework.
“Since 1984, our Leaders have insisted that our voices be heard and our priorities respected. Yet we know that recognition is never automatic. It must continually be renewed, championed, and backed by clear political choices,” he stated.
He acknowledged the work of SIS officials in identifying key priorities and called for continued collaboration with regional bodies such as the Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific (CROP) to deliver tangible outcomes.
“Our discussions today carry weight well beyond this room,” he told the gathering. “They will shape the visibility of the Smaller Island States in the broader Forum deliberations this week, and they will send a signal to our partners and to the international community.”
President Maamau concluded with a rallying call for bold and united action, stating that while the SIS face significant challenges, they also have the potential to become a strong political force in the Pacific.
“If we are bold and united, the SIS will not only endure as a grouping but will lead in showing how vulnerability can be transformed into political strength.”
At the 53rd PIFLM last year in Tonga, leaders reaffirmed the importance of integrating Smaller Island States’ priorities in the implementation of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
SIS is a coalition of Pacific Island countries that face unique development challenges due to their small size, geographic isolation, and limited resources. The SIS includes the Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Tuvalu.
The Pacific Islands Forum recognizes the distinct vulnerabilities of SIS countries and established the SIS Programme Unit to address their development needs and enhance their engagement in regional processes.
The 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting continues throughout the week in Honiara and will conclude with the Leaders’ Retreat in Noro, Western Province.

PIF SG congratulates President Maamau, reaffirms commitment to SIS priorities

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BY NED GAGAHE
Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Secretary General Baron Divavesi Waqa has congratulated Kiribati President Taneti Maamau on assuming the Chairmanship of the Smaller Island States (SIS), reaffirming the Forum Secretariat’s unwavering support for the region’s most vulnerable members.
Speaking at the official opening of the SIS meeting held yesterday at the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) headquarters in Honiara, Secretary General Waqa joined regional leaders in welcoming President Maamau’s leadership at a critical juncture for the SIS grouping.
“At the outset, allow me to thank you, Mr Chair, for your welcome remarks, and to congratulate you on assuming the Chairmanship of the Smaller Island States,” he said.
Secretary General Waqa emphasised that the Smaller Island States group continues to hold a “special place” within the Pacific Islands Forum, describing it as a “political expression of solidarity” among the region’s smallest and most vulnerable nations.
“It is a reminder that our regional architecture must serve all equally—especially those with the least capacity but the greatest need,” he said.
He stated that senior SIS officials had met in Suva last month to prepare for the current discussions, offering key guidance to leaders.
He then outlined the three main agenda items shaping the SIS meeting:

  1. Review of the SIS Group and Strategy – with a focus on refining key priorities moving forward.
  2. Expression of Interest from the Government of Tonga – regarding SIS membership, underscoring the importance of inclusivity.
  3. Revitalisation of the SIS Development Fund – aimed at enhancing self-reliance and boosting visibility of the SIS group.
    “These are not just administrative matters,” Waqa stressed. “Each item touches the core of how SIS members will organise, advocate, and lead in the years to come.”
    He highlighted the importance of embedding SIS priorities within the broader 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, and ensuring that regional partners respond in ways that reflect the distinct circumstances of SIS members.
    “As your Secretary General, I am committed to ensuring that the Secretariat stands firmly behind you in this effort,” Waqa assured. “We will continue to provide technical support, policy advice, and create political space for your voices to be elevated and your decisions acted upon.”
    In conclusion, Waqa thanked President Maamau once again for his leadership and wished SIS leaders every success in their deliberations.
    The SIS meeting is a key part of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting, which continues this week in Honiara, culminating in the Leaders’ Retreat in Noro, Western Province.

Former chair of Small Island States happy with priority actions

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BY LORETTA B MANELE
The former Small Island States (SIS) Chair, His Excellency, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Wesley Simina is pleased with the recent priority actions SIS has identified this year.
He spoke about this at the 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Small Island States Leaders Meeting at FFA (Forum Fisheries Agency) in Honiara on Monday, September 8, 2025.
In initial remarks, the former SIS Chair expressed that it has been an honour for them to serve as Chair in the last y ear.
“It has been an honour for the Federated States of Micronesia to serve as Chair of the Smaller Island States grouping over the last year,” he said.
Moreover, Simina stressed that he his pleased that officials have worked together this year to identify and streamline four priority actions for the SIS that will form the focus of their advocacy and mainstreaming as the SIS across existing regional mechanisms and processes.
“Indeed, the securing of reliable air and sea transport, advancing fisheries development, strengthening regional procurement and health workforce mechanisms, and enhancing access to climate finance are not abstract issues – they are the realities that we contend with on a daily basis,” he said.
Simina stated that although few in numbers, SIS embodies the challenges we experience as a region which is the stark reality of climate change, the challenges of connectivity and the tests of economic viability.
He mentioned that for Federated States of Micronesia, these realities are lived everyday.
“Our nation is vast in ocean yet scattered in islands, facing the high costs of distance, limited connectivity, and extreme exposure to climate change.
“Our remoteness and vulnerability are not signs of weakness, but enduring reminders of why the SIS must continue to stand together. Our grouping reminds the region that the measure of Pacific solidarity lies not in averages, but in our ability to elevate the most vulnerable among us,” said Simina.

We must now look to the future: Simina

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BY LORETTA B MANELE
Strategically, we must now look to the future, says outgoing Chair of Small Island States (SIS) and President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) His Excellency, Wesley Simina.
He expressed the sentiment whilst delivering remarks at the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) “Small Island States Leaders Meeting” at FFA on Monday, September 8, 2025.
Simina emphasised that strategically, they must now look to the future as the task ahead is to consolidate the SIS Development Fund so that their priorities are not only acknowledged but financed.
“We must also continue to demand that regional and international partnerships recognise our realities — small in scale, but vast in ocean, culture, and resilience,” he added.
Simina also highlighted the theme for the 54th PIF Leaders Meeting ““Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for An Integrated Blue Pacific Continent”.
He said the theme carries a particular resonance for the Small Island States.
“For us, “acting now” should not be a mere slogan but an imperative of survival.
“Similarly, “integration” means a regional system that does not leave anyone behind but recognises that the strength of our Blue Pacific lies in the inclusion of its most vulnerable,” said Simina.
In further remarks, he stated that as FSM concludes in terms of being the Chair of SIS, he extends his gratitude to fellow leaders for their solidarity.
“Leadership in our Blue Pacific is shared — and it is through this collective approach that SIS will continue to transform vulnerabilities into opportunities for our peoples.
“I seek the meetings support for our colleague, President Maamau of Kiribati to assume the Chair of this 2025 SIS Leaders Meeting,” he said.

Climate change single greatest threat in the region

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Secretary General of Pacific Island Forum, His Excellency Baron Divavesi Waqa has emphasised efforts to address climate change, as it becomes the single greatest threat to life and livelihood of the people of the Pacific region.

Speaking at the opening of the Pacific ACP leaders meeting held at the Forum Fisheries Agency complex yesterday, he said the urgency for the Blue Pacific region could not be any clearer.

He said the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the World Bank estimate that climate disasters already cost our economies between six and nine percent of GDP each year.

“Think about that, nearly a tenth of our economic output is lost annually due to cyclones, floods, and rising seas.

“This is not just a number, it represents homes and livelihoods destroyed, schools closed, damaged infrastructures and futures disrupted,” Waqa said.

The Secretary General however stated despite shifting global political currents and economic turbulence, Pacific leaders remained unwavering in their efforts to address the impacts of climate change their countries and people.

“Climate change remains the single greatest threat to the lives and livelihoods of our people. That is why climate action must stay at the centre of our collective work.

“The Pacific has demonstrated how political advocacy can amplify our priorities on the global stage through the Political Climate Champions,” he said.

Waqa called on Pacific leaders to behind a united call for climate justice and voice it in the international stage.

“As we approach COP30, let us carry forward our call for Climate justice, amplified by the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice.

“These realities demand stronger institutions, sharper diplomatic advocacy, and deeper partnerships,” he said.

Waqa emphasized that the Samoa Agreement signed in Apia in 2023, gives PIF new platform to embed Pacific priorities within the EU-OACPS partnership.

He added the “Our Pacific islands Forum 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent” also gives PIF the vision to safeguard our sovereignty and resilience for generations to come.

“But vision alone is not enough. We need clear institutional arrangements, a costed plan of implementation, and adequate resources to carry it forward.

“Without that, the Samoa Agreement risks becoming a framework of words rather than a driver of change,” Waqa said.

On the same note, the Secretary General has sounded alarm on the profound global change the region is facing.

He said the World Bank projects global growth this year at only 2.3 percent — the slowest pace in decades outside times of crisis.

Waqa added the International Monetary Fund also warns that more than 60 developing countries are already in or at high risk of debt distress.

“Many are small island economies like ours, facing the same structural vulnerabilities,” he said.

PIF calls for increase of EU-NDICI for Pacific

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Secretary General of Pacific Island Forum (PIF), His Excellency Baron Divavesi Waqa has called for an increase to the EU’s Neighbourhood Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI), if it remains fit for the purpose of the Pacific region.
The Pacific Leader made the call, stressing the insufficient share Pacific has received from the funding programme.
According to NDICI, the EU-NDICI 2021-2027 refers to the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe, the EU’s primary financing tool for its external actions from 2021 to 2027, with a budget of €79.5 billion.
It supports projects in developing countries and regions to achieve global goals like sustainable development and poverty eradication.
The instrument focuses on promoting good governance, inclusive growth, human development, climate action, and peace, while also strengthening regional cooperation and integration with the EU’s internal market.
The Secretary General said on development financing, it has to be equally candid. The EU’s is valued at seventy-nine and a half billion euros globally for the period 2021 to 2027.
“Yet, of this vast envelope, the Pacific’s share is less than two hundred million euros.
“We appreciate the support already committed: 10 million euros for the Pacific Trade and Sustainable Development programme, and 20 million euros for the second phase of the PEUMP programme,” he said.
The Pacific-European Union (EU) Marine Partnership (PEUMP) programme promotes sustainable management and sound ocean governance through a holistic and multi-sectoral approach contributing to social, economic and environmental development in the Pacific, as well as biodiversity protection and promoting the sustainable use of fisheries and other marine resources.
The PEUMP programme focuses on equitable benefits for all Pacific countries, whilst recognising the diversity of resources, needs and opportunities amongst its 15 Pacific countries of work – the Cook Islands, Fiji, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, Tonga, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor Leste and Vanuatu.
Speaking on the EU-NDICI funding program, Waqa said it is not proportionate to the scale of challenges or commitments made.
“More of our members are joining the IEPA, and the obligations of implementation grow heavier. And if the NDICI is to remain fit-for-purpose for our region, the Pacific envelope will need to expand, he said.
On that note, Waqa urged PIF leaders that as they will be endorsing outcomes before them, they must do so with clarity and resolve.
“Our institutions must be made fit-for-purpose. Our advocacy must remain sharp. Our partnerships must deliver real impact. And our unity must remain unshakable.

“If we succeed, we will reaffirm the Pacific not as a bystander to global change, but as a confident, resilient, and future-ready force shaping the world around us,” he said.
Moreover, the Secretary General emphasized that the earmarked of the post of Assistant Secretary General in the OACPS Secretariat is not just symbolic.
“It is strategic. It places a Pacific voice in Brussels — at the very centre of finance and administration decisions that affect our region.
“Unity behind this nomination will be critical to strengthening our influence,” Waqa said.

Solomon Islands is now Pacific ACP Chair

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BY LORETTA B MANELE
Solomon Islands now takes on the leadership of the Pacific ACP (African, Caribbean and Pacific) Chair from former chair, the Kingdom of Tonga.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele welcomed regionals leaders to the 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting on Monday, September 8, 2025, at FFA headquarter, Honiara.
Speaking at PIF’s second meeting of the day “Pacific ACP Leaders Meeting”, he said it is an honour and privilege to host the Pacific ACP Leaders here in Honiara.
Manele also took the opportunity to acknowledge the former Pacific ACP Chair for their leadership.
“I also wish to acknowledge the Kingdom of Tonga, our outgoing Pacific ACP Chair, for their leadership and support in our work and engagement as Pacific ACP States. Under Tonga’s stewardship, further significant progress in realising our collective priorities was made,” he said.
Manele went on to state that the signing of the Samoa Agreement in 2023 set a renewed framework with our European partners and they have advanced Pacific climate diplomacy at COP28 and COP29, ensuring our survival agenda remained at the heart of global discussions.
“These are the legacies of our Forum Leaders’ collective wisdom, all of which will serve our Blue Pacific region for generations to come,” he said.
Manele expressed that as Solomon Islands assumes the leadership of our Pacific ACP work, it will be done conscious of the responsibility that lies ahead.
“Our task is to build on this foundation and guide our collective efforts at a time when our Blue Pacific region faces heightened challenges, but also new opportunities,” he said.
Manele also highlighted that the upcoming appointment of the Pacific’s Assistant Secretary-General at the OACPS (Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States) Secretariat is a moment for PIF to stand united.
“This post will give the Pacific not only visibility, but a firmer hand in shaping decisions in Brussels that affect our region’s financing, governance, and implementation of the Samoa Agreement,” he said.
In further remarks, Manele stressed that their meeting is about more than procedures.
“It is about charting a way forward together,” he said.
The Prime Minister told fellow regional leaders that they should ensure that in their work with the OACPS and the EU, the Blue Pacific continues to speak with one voice to ensure the successful implementation of the Samoa Agreement, as well as the 2050 Strategy.
“I welcome and look forward to your continued support and assistance in our work and discussions today, and in the coming months.
“The success of our leadership and representation of our collective will is premised on the spirit of Pacific solidarity, with clarity, urgency, and unity, to assure sustainable benefits, development, and security of our Pacific people,” he said.

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