Cook Islands Prime Minister and Forum Chair Mark Brown has emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts with various development partners in supporting Pacific Island countries.
Speaking last week in Tokyo, PM Brown highlighted the increasing focus on Pacific nations by Japan, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand due to Beijing’s growing influence in the region.
Many Pacific nations, economically dependent on China have drawn international attention.
The PALM10 declaration in Japan stressed the “primacy” of peace and stability, underscoring the importance of a “free and open international rules-based order in line with international law.”
The declaration voiced “strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by the threat or use of force or coercion anywhere in the world,” carefully avoiding direct mention of China.
“Many of our countries have maintained formal diplomatic relations with China for over 50 years, with the Cook Islands marking 25 years.
“China remains a key development partner, supporting infrastructure investments and resilience against climate change impacts,” Brown said.
Brown, co-chairing this year’s summit, welcomed Japan’s equal partnership approach with Pacific Island Forum (PIF) members to achieve the 2050 strategy for the Blue Pacific.
This vision aims for a region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion, and prosperity.
“We don’t see this as a contentious area within the Pacific. There is ample space for all development partners to align themselves with the 2050 strategy, our blueprint for development aspirations.
“Our primary security needs are climate and economic security, and we welcome collaboration that fits these priorities,” said PM Brown.
