Pacific Islands Forum Troika Leaders met today in Suva, Fiji, for strategic discussions on the future governance of the Pacific regional system and key regional priorities in the lead up to the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau.
The Forum Troika comprises the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum and Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Matthew Wale, the Prime Minister of Tonga, Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua, and the President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr.
The meeting formed part of Prime Minister Wale’s first Official State visit to Fiji since assuming the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum.
Opening the meeting, Prime Minister Wale emphasised the importance of ensuring that the Pacific’s regional institutions continue to evolve to meet an increasingly complex strategic environment.
“The question before us is not whether the region will change. It will. The question is whether we, as a region, are positioned to evolve quickly enough to continue serving our Leaders and our people in an agile and efficient manner,” said Prime Minister Wale.
Troika Leaders held frank and candid discussions on the continued strengthening of Pacific regionalism, including progress on the implementation of the Suva Agreement and the broader Review of the Regional Architecture reforms aimed at ensuring the regional system remains fit for purpose, responsive and Member-led.
Leaders also exchanged views on preparations for the region’s engagement in the lead-up to COP31, including Fiji and Tuvalu hosting of the Pre-COP31 meeting later this year, recognising the importance of maintaining a strong and united voice on climate action and sustainable development.
Leaders also reflected on the progress of the Pacific Resilience Facility(PRF) and underscored the importance of engaging and advocating for its capitalisation with all genuine partners.
Preparations for the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, to be hosted by Palau from 31 August – 04 September also featured prominently in their discussions.
Throughout the meeting, Troika Leaders reaffirmed the value of the Forum as the region’s premier political institution and reaffirmed the importance of maintaining Pacific unity, strengthening regional governance and accelerating implementation of Leaders’ decisions.
The meeting in Suva was the third meeting of the Forum Troika in 2026 and reflects the Troika’s ongoing role in providing strategic guidance between annual meetings of Forum Leaders.
