Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa has called for stronger, more inclusive regional security cooperation to tackle growing global and regional threats, as the Pacific Regional and National Security Conference opened in Suva today.
“Building a safer Pacific is not the work of one sector or institution. It requires all of us, working in step, to shape a stronger, more inclusive regional security ecosystem that reflects the priorities of our people and the vision of our Leaders,” Waqa told participants.
The Forum Secretary General warned that the Pacific is not immune to growing global tensions, citing the Middle East conflicts, the war in Eastern Europe, and power rivalries.
“These developments are not distant from us. They are already being felt in the Pacific, through economic impacts, rising risks and changing perceptions,” he said. “Multilateral engagement is essential.”
Waqa said the region must deepen its own security cooperation, calling for a “flexible, inclusive and responsive regional security mechanism” and prevention-focused action to protect lives and build trust.
The conference gathers security leaders from across the Pacific and its partners, with a focus on advancing the Boe Declaration Action Plan and the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration.
“The Boe Declaration Action Plan gives practical effect to the 2018 Boe Declaration on Regional Security. It reinforces our expanded concept of security, one that includes human security, humanitarian assistance, and environmental security,” Waqa said.
He noted real progress in national preparedness and regional cooperation, while stressing the need to evolve in the face of new challenges.
Waqa also highlighted the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace initiative led by Fiji.
“It is more than a statement. It is a pledge to lead with peace. To embed it across our institutions, invest in conflict prevention, and protect our people and our environment,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Pacific’s long-standing stand against nuclear threats and pointed to the Rarotonga Treaty as a symbol of regional unity and moral clarity.
“Let us keep building a robust and transparent regional security architecture that meets the needs of our members, empowers our people and reflects Pacific-led decision making,” Waqa said.
The Forum chief concluded by urging participants to “think boldly and act collaboratively” as the region maps out next steps for peace and security.
