Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa today welcomed Ocean ministers from the region in their first ever meeting as they chart their course towards the upcoming third UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France.
The Pacific Ocean Ministers Preparatory Meeting for the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference this week, Waqa said should consider how the Pacific positions itself not just as a region at the frontline of ocean challenges, but as a leader in solutions.
Gathered as the custodians of nearly 20 percent of the Earth’s surface, Pacific Ministers reaffirmed their role as global stewards of ocean health.
Waqa reminded Ministers that this is more than a political gathering—it is a defining moment in a collective journey to safeguard a region that depends on the ocean not only for sustenance but for identity, culture, and legacy.
“Our presence here affirms our collective political will and regional unity. It speaks to the strength of our shared identity, our Blue Pacific identity, and our unwavering commitment to safeguard our ocean, our people, and our future.”
With climate change, illegal fishing, biodiversity loss, and marine pollution threatening the heart of the Pacific way of life, the timing of this meeting is crucial.
Waqa emphasised the unique opportunity this inaugural gathering presents.
“The convening of this inaugural Pacific Ocean Ministers meeting comes at a pivotal moment—availing an opportunity for us as a region to chart our collective course towards a future where the Ocean is resilient and healthy, guaranteeing the prosperity and abundance of our future generations.”
The Ministers were urged to move beyond aspirations and into actionable strategies.
“These are not just aspirational words; they are an intergenerational responsibility. It is our responsibility as generations of today to turn these aspirations into reality, leaving behind a legacy of hope and prosperity for our children and grandchildren,” said Waqa.
A significant highlight of the meeting is its cross-sectoral approach to ocean governance—a regional first, as all ocean-related sectors converge for open dialogue, synergy, and strategy-building.
“For the first time at the regional level, we will have all the Ocean related sectors represented in a meeting… promoting collaboration and partnerships at the operational levels,” said Waqa.
The roadmap forward includes clear mandates: refining the Pacific’s messaging for the UN Oceans Conference, identifying priority areas of leadership, and amplifying Pacific-grown solutions that interlink climate finance, gender equality, youth participation, technology, and ocean governance.
“Let us also be bold in identifying cross-cutting challenges… that demand integrated, Pacific-grown solutions.”
Waqa acknowledged the Pacific’s strong track record—through initiatives like the Pacific Resilience Facility, the East New Britain Initiative, and decisive actions on maritime boundaries and biodiversity protection.
“These efforts reflect the leadership our region continues to demonstrate on the global stage.”
As the region looks ahead to the 3rd UN Oceans Conference, COP30, and FfD4, Waqa called for solidarity, courage, and action grounded in tradition and inclusivity.
“This meeting should consider how the Pacific positions itself not just as a region at the frontline of ocean challenges, but as a leader in solutions.”
“The 2050 Strategy is our blueprint. The ocean is our heritage. And unity is our strength.”
The inaugural Pacific Ocean Ministers meeting which starts today and tomorrow serves as a key platform for the Pacific’s preparations for the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) to be held later in Nice, France between 09 – 13 June 2025.
