Ukraine has been granted sectoral partner status in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), opening a new channel for cooperation with Pacific countries on food security, digital governance, education and climate change adaptation.
The decision was made by Forum leaders at the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau from 30 August to 04 September, with the Ukrainian Embassy in Australia confirming the development on 25 October.
The Forum Secretariat has formally notified Ukraine of its inclusion in the Sectoral Partnership Stream, according to the embassy.
The status follows more than three years of Ukrainian diplomatic efforts to strengthen relations with Pacific island countries and regional organisations.
It provides a framework for regular political dialogue with Forum members, including participation in the annual Forum Foreign Ministers–Forum Partners Dialogue.
Ukraine and the Forum can also develop a joint cooperation plan covering areas of mutual interest.
The Ukrainian Embassy identified food security, digital governance, education and climate adaptation as priority areas for engagement.
Cooperation on food security could provide opportunities for Ukrainian agricultural and food producers, as Pacific island economies seek to strengthen the resilience of food supplies and reduce vulnerabilities linked to import dependence.
Ukraine has also indicated interest in sharing its experience in digital public services and e-governance, while education cooperation could include academic exchanges, joint research and specialist training.
However, the announcement did not include details of specific trade agreements, investment projects or financial commitments.
The embassy said Ukraine also placed importance on cooperation with Pacific countries on international law, the United Nations Charter, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
It highlighted the principle that international borders must not be changed by force and thanked the Forum Secretariat and its 18 members for supporting the decision.
The Pacific Islands Forum, established in 1971, is the region’s principal political and economic organisation, bringing together Pacific island countries and territories, Australia and New Zealand.
Its work covers regional economic integration, trade, climate change, sustainable development and security, guided by the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
At the 2026 leaders meeting, members approved an updated framework for engagement with international partners, dividing cooperation into strategic and sectoral streams.
Ukraine’s new status provides an institutional pathway for longer-term engagement with the region but does not make it a full member of the Pacific Islands Forum.
