Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele met with U.S. officials and Pacific leaders at the U.S.–Pacific Islands Forum Roundtable in Port Moresby. As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, he emphasized the importance of partnerships that respect national and regional priorities.
"Partnerships must respect both national and regional priorities," said Prime Minister Manele. "We remain committed to ensuring future engagements align with the newly endorsed Leaders Policy on Partnerships and the long-term objectives of the Pacific 2050 Strategy."
The Prime Minister highlighted key regional initiatives, including the Pacific Resilience Facility Treaty and the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration. "These initiatives aim to strengthen climate and disaster resilience and ensure Pacific priorities are defined and advanced by the region itself," he said.
Prime Minister Manele also acknowledged the U.S. payment of US$60 million to the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, supporting sustainable fisheries management. "We appreciate the U.S. commitment to sustainable fisheries management through the South Pacific Tuna Treaty," he said.
On nuclear legacy issues, Prime Minister Manele called for continued support to safely manage unexploded ordnance from World War II. "We need continued support to protect Pacific communities and future generations from the risks of unexploded ordnance," he stressed.
Prime Minister Manele also congratulated Papua New Guinea on its 50th Independence Anniversary, highlighting the importance of nation-building in the Pacific. "Nation-building in the Pacific relies on cultural heritage, resilient communities, and a shared determination to secure a prosperous future for all Pacific peoples," he said.
Through this roundtable, Prime Minister Manele reaffirmed the value of the partnership between the United States and the Pacific Islands Forum. "We recognize U.S. contributions to development, security, maritime safety, disaster preparedness, and economic growth, and emphasize that all collaborative efforts must remain aligned with Pacific priorities," he said.
