Fiji and the wider Pacific have secured a major breakthrough after the Green Climate Fund (GCF) endorsed the establishment of its Pacific Office in Suva.
The decision, confirmed at the GCF Board’s 44th meeting, will see climate funding and support brought closer to Pacific Island countries, allowing faster access to finance and stronger regional coordination.
The move follows months of advocacy led by Fiji, after Pacific leaders backed the country to submit a proposal on behalf of the region at the Forum Economic Ministers Meeting in July 2025.
Initial plans for a smaller outpost office were expanded into a full Sub-Regional Office after sustained lobbying by Pacific representatives and other Small Island Developing States on the GCF Board.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka welcomed the outcome, stating: “This is a proud moment for Fiji and the Pacific. It reflects our leadership and persistence in ensuring that global climate finance mechanisms respond to the realities of Small Island Developing States. I acknowledge the leadership of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change that worked tirelessly to prepare and deliver this proposal under tight timelines. Their commitment to this outcome has delivered a result that will benefit the entire region.”
GCF Executive Director Mafalda Duarte also acknowledged Fiji’s role, stating: “Fiji’s leadership and steadfast advocacy for ambitious climate action, particularly on behalf of Small Island Developing States, has long been recognised globally. GCF is genuinely excited to deepen our partnership with Fiji through a strengthened in-region presence that will support more responsive engagement, closer coordination with stakeholders, and accelerated access to climate finance for Pacific countries.”
The new office is expected to support faster funding approvals for climate projects, including seawalls, village relocations, renewable energy, and ocean protection initiatives.
It will also strengthen technical support for Pacific countries to develop bankable projects and improve access to climate finance, while ensuring decisions are made closer to the realities of island nations.
The establishment of the Suva office is also expected to create new jobs, partnerships, and opportunities, while boosting Fiji’s leadership role in regional climate action.
The Fijian Government will now work with the GCF to finalise arrangements and operationalise the office.
Officials say the development removes long-standing barriers that have slowed access to climate finance for Pacific countries and marks a shift towards faster, more direct support for vulnerable communities.
“This is not just a win for Fiji. It is a win for the entire Pacific. Less delay. More action. Real support where it matters most,” a Fiji Government statement said.
