Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Secretary General, Baron Waqa has welcomed the Republic of the Marshall Islands’ (RMI) signing of the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty on 03 March 2025.
The historic signing of the Treaty, also known as the Treaty of Rarotonga, took place in Majuro during the observance of the Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day on the same day, underscoring the Marshall Islands’ enduring commitment to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.
By becoming a signatory to the Treaty of Rarotonga, the Marshall Islands has indicated its intention to be bound with a view to future ratification. This reinforces the region’s collective stand towards a nuclear-free Pacific as envisaged by the Rarotonga Treaty and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Secretary General Waqa underscored the significance of the signing of the Rarotonga Treaty by the Marshall Islands during the Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day.
“This step demonstrates the nation’s unwavering commitment to nuclear disarmament. The Republic of the Marshall Islands continues to bear the brunt of nuclear testing, and this signing is a testament to Forum nations’ ongoing advocacy for a safe, secure, and nuclear-weapon-free region.”
The Rarotonga Treaty was opened for signature on 06 August 1985 and entered into force on 11 December 1986. The Treaty represents a key regional commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament, contributing to global efforts to eliminate the threat of nuclear proliferation.
The decision by the Republic of the Marshall Islands to sign the Rarotonga Treaty carries profound importance given its history and ongoing advocacy for nuclear justice.
