BY NED GAGAHE
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, has delivered a strong and unifying message at the opening of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Plenary Meeting, declaring that the Pacific region “must never be seen as an arena for others”.
Speaking to fellow Pacific leaders in a fast-shifting geopolitical landscape, PM Manele emphasised that the region’s strength lies in its solidarity, shared values, and collective action.
“The world around us is changing fast. Competition among powerful interests is intensifying. And the Pacific must never be seen as an arena for others,” he said.
“We are not passive bystanders. We are nations. Bound by shared values and the Pacific way.”
PM Manele’s remarks come amid growing interest in the Pacific by major powers, including the United States, China, and others, who have intensified their diplomatic, economic, and strategic outreach in recent years.
The 2025 Forum is held under the theme ‘Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent’ which Manele described as “a resounding call for a renewed commitment to defend regionalism.”
He said leaders must use the opportunity to strengthen the Pacific Islands Forum as the region’s premier political and policy institution.
“Our discussions today have been informed by a multitude of sectoral conversations throughout the year. And I look forward to engaging on these issues to support the progress of our collective priorities,” he said.
Reflecting on the structure of the meeting, PM Manele acknowledged the growing role of sectoral ministries in shaping the leaders’ agenda.
He noted that proposals to review the agenda-setting process to ensure better alignment between the design and implementation of Forum priorities, especially within the context of ongoing discussions on the regional architecture.
“I encourage us to keep this in mind throughout the deliberation of the issues before us today,” Manele stated.
He also called on leaders to consider the formalization of certain agenda-setting practices to ensure the Forum remains effective in advancing the Pacific’s shared priorities.
PM Manele concluded with a forward-looking vision for the region, calling on leaders to “secure a peaceful, resilient and prosperous Blue Pacific for generations to come.”
His statement reinforced the Pacific’s commitment to maintaining regional independence and unity in the face of external pressures.
“We believe in the regime’s strength and authority to advance our priorities,” he said.
The 54th PIF Leaders Plenary is expected to address pressing regional issues, including climate resilience, ocean governance, regional security, and the future direction of the Pacific regional architecture.
