Leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum Troika met in person on April 16 in Nadi to assess key regional priorities amid growing global uncertainty, underscoring the need for stronger coordination and political leadership across the Pacific.
The meeting was chaired by Jeremiah Manele, prime minister of Solomon Islands, and attended by Surangel Whipps Jr of Palau and Lord Fakafanua of Tonga.
Leaders reviewed progress on regional priorities and discussed emerging challenges, highlighting the urgency of coordinated responses as the Pacific faces an increasingly complex global environment. They reaffirmed the importance of regional solidarity and coherent policymaking.
The meeting also included the in-person participation of Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji, while Chris Bowen of Australia joined virtually to present on key agenda items.
Leaders examined the implications of the evolving Middle East crisis, noting heightened risks to health systems as well as fuel and food security in the Pacific. They agreed to consult Forum leaders on a phased, scenario-based approach to regional action, including the development of a coordinated position.
Discussions also covered governance and institutional matters, including progress under the Review of the Regional Architecture and key documents such as the Forum Leaders’ Communiqué. Leaders emphasized strengthening partnerships and improving institutional coherence across the regional system.
Preparations for the 55th Pacific Islands Forum, to be hosted in Palau, and upcoming engagements related to COP31 were also reviewed, with leaders stressing the need for alignment across regional processes.
The meeting reaffirmed the Forum Troika’s role as an advisory mechanism providing strategic and political guidance to the Forum chair, with all Forum leaders to be consulted on the outcomes of the discussions.
