By Pita Ligaiula in Honiara, Solomon Islands
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele opened the Pacific ACP Leaders Meeting in Honiara today with a call for solidarity, stronger representation, and urgent climate action as the region prepares for key global negotiations.
“On behalf of the Government and People of Solomon Islands, I extend to all of you a very warm welcome to the Solomon Islands. It is an honour and privilege to host our meeting of Pacific ACP Leaders here in Honiara,” Manele said.
He acknowledged Tonga as the outgoing chair, crediting its leadership for progress on the Samoa Agreement, Pacific climate diplomacy at COP28 and COP29, and the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF).
“The signing of the Samoa Agreement in 2023 set a renewed framework with our European partners. We advanced Pacific climate diplomacy at COP28 and COP29, ensuring our survival agenda remained at the heart of global discussions. And critically, we progressed the Pacific Resilience Facility — our first Pacific-owned financing mechanism for resilience,” Manele said.
He stressed the importance of the upcoming appointment of a Pacific Assistant Secretary-General at the OACPS Secretariat, describing it as a chance for greater visibility and influence in Brussels.
“For us, representation and influence are paramount. This post will give the Pacific not only visibility, but a firmer hand in shaping decisions in Brussels that affect our region’s financing, governance, and implementation of the Samoa Agreement,” he said.
Turning to climate diplomacy, Manele said the region must prepare for COP30 and reaffirm its push to host COP31 in partnership with Australia.
“The Pacific has shown, through the Climate Champions initiative, that political advocacy can elevate our priorities on the world stage. As we approach COP30, it is essential that we empower a new cohort of Champions to carry forward our collective call for climate justice,” he said.
On financing, Manele made clear the issue is not only about resources but fairness.
“For the Pacific, financing is not just about numbers — it is about equity, justice and fairness. Our people are on the frontline of climate change and global shocks. Our share of resources must reflect not only our vulnerabilities, but also our commitment to be responsible and reliable partners,” he said.
Manele also emphasised Pacific ACP unity in engaging with the OACPS and EU.
“Today’s meeting is about more than procedures. It is about charting a way forward together. Let us ensure that in our work with the OACPS and the EU, the Blue Pacific continues to speak with one voice to ensure the successful implementation of the Samoa Agreement, as well as the 2050 Strategy,” he said.
