Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Secretary General Baron Waqa has reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to supporting new Chair, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, saying unity, service and collective action will be critical as the region faces climate, economic and security challenges.
Speaking on Thursday at the inaugural welcome ceremony for the Forum Chair at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, Waqa welcomed Prime Minister Wale and Tonga’s Lord Fakafanua to the Secretariat.
“It is both my honour and privilege, as Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, to welcome the Forum Chair, Matthew Wale, and Lord Fakafanua to your Secretariat, your regional home here in the heart of Fiji, Suva.”
Waqa said the ceremony represented more than a leadership transition.
“Today’s (Thursday)ceremony is both symbolic and significant.
It marks not only one of transition but also one of connection, a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to the Pacific Islands Forum as the preeminent political grouping for our Blue Pacific Continent,” he said.
He said the position of Forum Chair carried significant responsibility.
“The role of the Forum Chair is one of great responsibility and trust.
It is a role that calls for steady leadership, wisdom, and unity, to guide our collective priorities, to uphold what binds us together as Pacific peoples, and to help steer our region through a time of both challenge and opportunity,” said Waqa.
The Secretary General said the Pacific continues to face a rapidly changing environment shaped by climate change, economic pressures and security issues.
“Your region continues to navigate a dynamic and changing landscape, one shaped by climate change, evolving economic realities, security considerations, and the aspirations of our people for a better and more inclusive future.”
He said Pacific unity and the spirit of Talanoa remain the region’s greatest strengths.
“In such times, what anchors and binds us are our sense of togetherness, our spirit of Talanoa, and working together side by side.
It is this spirit that continues to guide the Forum as a space for dialogue, collective action, and shared purpose,” he stressed.
Waqa said the Pacific Islands Forum remains the region’s principal political platform.
“The Forum remains our primary platform, a place where we come together as one, one Blue Pacific, to advance our collective priorities, and to amplify the voice of our region on the global stage.”
He said the Secretariat stood ready to support the Chair and Forum members in advancing the regional agenda under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
“As we welcome the Forum Chair today, we do so with confidence and with goodwill, knowing that leadership in our region is strengthened by unity, humility, and service.
The Secretariat stands ready to walk alongside the Chair and all Members in advancing our shared agenda under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent,” SG Waqa said.
Reflecting on last year’s Forum theme, Waqa said it highlighted the need for greater urgency in regional cooperation.
“As we reflect on our journey, we are reminded of last year’s theme, ‘Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent,’ which called on us to move together with urgency and purpose in strengthening our regional cooperation.”
He called on Forum members to renew their commitment to implementing the 2050 Strategy.
“As we mark this important occasion and formally receive the Forum Chair today, let us do so in the spirit of partnership and solidarity, fully committed to advancing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Let us renew our promise to continue to strengthen our work across our governments, our institutions, and our communities to realise a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient Blue Pacific,” he emphasised.
Waqa welcomed the Forum Chair and reaffirming the Secretariat’s commitment ahead of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
“On behalf of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, I extend to you all a warm and heartfelt welcome.
We look forward to walking this journey together in the lead-up to the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting and the important engagements ahead,” he said.
