Pacific Islands Forum Concludes with ‘Ocean of Peace’ Declaration,Shifting alliances
Suva,Fiji - The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) concluded this week with leaders adopting the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration,a move signaling a unified front against growing geopolitical tensions and a commitment too regional sovereignty. The declaration, initially proposed by Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka last year, aims to establish the Pacific region “free from militarisation,” acknowledging its history as “a theatre of the two world wars and a testing ground for the most risky weapons - the impacts of which are still felt today.” Rabuka stated the declaration ”will demonstrate that our region is free from militarisation.” Solomon Islands’ Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele echoed this sentiment, calling it “a reclamation of our sovereignty and our shared destiny” and a “solemn vow that our seas, air and lands will never again be drawn into the vortex of great power rivalry.”
The forum also highlighted shifting dynamics in the region, particularly concerning Australia’s influence. A proposed $500m decade-long agreement with Vanuatu,the Nakamal agreement,fell through after Vanuatu expressed concerns over clauses limiting its ability to seek infrastructure funding from other countries. A spokesperson from Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat’s office clarified the decision was ”nothing to do with China, who have been friends with us since day one and will continue to remain so going forward.”
This setback prompted Australia to intensify discussions with Fiji regarding a potential security pact.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese directed officials to begin negotiations to “upgrade” the existing security relationship,stating,”Preliminary discussions have been about increased security agreements…I think we should get our officials working together to make sure we take this crucial relationship to the next level.”
The forum underscored the increasing importance of climate change resilience, with several nations seeking increased commitments from developed countries ahead of COP31, scheduled to be hosted in Fiji and Vanuatu in 2026. While specific climate finance pledges weren’t immediately announced, the issue remained central to discussions. The PIF serves as a crucial platform for regional cooperation,addressing issues ranging from security and economic advancement to the escalating climate crisis and the growing influence of external powers like China in the pacific.
