By Pita Ligaiula in Honiara, Solomon Islands
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has officially assumed the role of Pacific Islands Forum Chair, calling on leaders to unite and tackle the region’s critical challenges head-on on its journey toward resilience, peace, and regionalism.
Opening the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting (PIFLM54) in Honiara on Monday, Manele welcomed leaders to the Solomon Islands, describing it as a “great honour and a deep privilege” for his country and people.
“Indeed, the true beauty of the Forum is the opportunity that we have to share the richness of our culture, diversity and heritage through the annual convenings of our Leaders Summit, across our Blue Pacific Continent,” Manele said.
He paid special tribute to the people of Guadalcanal as the traditional custodians of the land where the Forum is being held and acknowledged Tonga for its leadership as outgoing Forum Chair.
“We have all witnessed and felt the Tongan mafana throughout Tonga’s tenure as Forum Chair – under both the former Prime Minister Sovaleni as well as our brother here with us this evening, Prime Minister Eke – malo ‘aupito,” he said.
Manele said Solomon Islands was humbled by the confidence of Forum members to lead the regional body at such a critical time.
“The magnitude of the task ahead does not escape me, but I will rely on and remain grateful for the counsel of colleague leaders over the next 12 months,” he said.
He reminded leaders that the Forum was founded 54 years ago on a spirit of solidarity, and that unity remains more important than ever.
Quoting the late Sir George Lepping from the last time Solomon Islands hosted the Forum in 1992, Manele stressed that cooperation was vital in an era of global competition for resources and markets.
“Those sentiments uttered thirty-three years ago resonate even more today as we navigate the evolving challenges of this era,” he said.
“Our solidarity has continued to stand the test of time – but we cannot be complacent, and we must not take our relationships, as a Forum Family, for granted.”
“‘Iumi Tugeda’ reflects the spirit of Pacific solidarity, rooted in kinship, mutual respect, and the Pacific Way,” he said. “‘Act Now’ reminds us that the challenges we face demand immediate and united responses. ‘An Integrated Blue Pacific Continent’ reaffirms our shared vision and commitment to working together and envisions a region that is not only connected by geography, but by purpose, values, and vision, PM Manele explained the theme.
The Solomon Islands leader said the theme was not just aspirational but also a call to concrete action as leaders gather to address pressing issues, including climate change, regional security, and sustainable development.
Manele highlighted two major outcomes expected from the Honiara meeting: the signing of the Agreement to Establish the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), and the endorsement of the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration.
“Taken together, it will be a strong political recommitment to resilience and peace across our Blue Pacific Continent,” he said.
He also paid tribute to Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for championing the Ocean of Peace initiative, describing him as “a true friend of Solomon Islands.”
Manele stressed the importance of dialogue with all stakeholders in shaping the region’s future.
He said the week will include dialogues with regional organisations, the private sector, and civil society.
“These dialogues are a demonstration of our commitment to inclusivity – but the dialogues alone are not sufficient – it is only the beginning,” he said.
“There is work yet to be done to ensure that we are able to follow through on these conversations.”
He also reaffirmed the role of partners, thanking them for their support in preparations for the Honiara summit.
“Indeed, these are critical to the achievements of our aspirations – the arrangements for this entire week has only been possible because of the support of our partners.
“Allow me to take this opportunity to sincerely acknowledge our partners for their understanding on the position taken in relation to this 54th convening of the Pacific Islands Forum. We look forward to inviting you back to engage with us at our next opportunity,” he said.
Manele singled out Pacific youth for their leadership, particularly in pushing global accountability on climate change.
He acknowledged Solomon Islands youths Solomon Yeo, Cynthia Houihi, and Rodrick Rolland, alongside young leaders from Tonga, Vanuatu, Fiji, Samoa, and Australia.
“The region celebrates your innovation and resilience, and we thank you for your advocacy and service – tagio tumas,” he said.
Manele also invoked the words on Solomon Islands’ national crest: “To Lead is to Serve.”
“May we lead with humility, wisdom and unwavering dedication to our people across the Blue Pacific. “God bless our Forum Family and our people across our Blue Pacific Continent,” the Forum Chair said.
Today the Leaders will meet behind closed doors for their annual dialogue and talanoa among other important sideline events.
