Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers are pushing for stronger economic integration and increased capitalisation of the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) as the region seeks greater economic independence and resilience.
Ministers welcomed the operationalisation of the PRF and urged Forum Members to step up advocacy with development partners to secure more capital for the Pacific-led financing facility.
The call was made at the 2026 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, where Ministers reviewed regional initiatives under Resource and Economic Development.
They reaffirmed that economic development driven by deeper regional integration is critical to strengthening the economic independence of Pacific Island countries.
Ministers also welcomed stronger cross-sectoral collaboration on initiatives such as the East New Britain Initiative and encouraged regional support and advocacy for its effective implementation.
Ministers commended Members for the rapid ratification of the Agreement to Establish the Pacific Resilience Facility, which entered into force in May 2026.
They reaffirmed the PRF as a Pacific-led regional financing facility and encouraged Members to strengthen advocacy for its capitalisation at all levels.
Ministers highlighted the upcoming pre-COP31 meetings in the Pacific as an opportunity to push for increased financial commitments to the facility.
They also welcomed the entry into force of the PRF Agreement on 06 May 2026 and called for close Member engagement as the facility moves into full operation.
Ministers encouraged the rapid appointment of the PRF Board and supported the transition of the PRF team to Tonga to establish the office and commence operations.
They also welcomed progress on PRF community-impact initiatives, including support for Tuvalu’s water-security priorities.
Ministers called for increased advocacy for PRF capitalisation at the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Pre-COP31 meetings in the region and COP31 in Türkiye.
Ministers also noted an update from Papua New Guinea on its plans to host the Pacific-Led Innovation Dialogue from 13 to 16 October 2026.
They also considered an update from the Marshall Islands on USDM1, described as the world’s first sovereign digital instrument issued by the country.
Ministers noted its potential to improve financial inclusion, address the withdrawal of cash and banking services in the region and support emergency response and public services.
The Marshall Islands has offered to share its technical approach, programme design and regulatory and compliance framework with interested Forum Members.
The outcomes highlight the Forum’s focus on strengthening regional economic integration while building Pacific-led financing and development mechanisms to reduce economic vulnerabilities and deliver greater benefits to Members.
