Senior officials from the Republic of Korea and Pacific Islands Forum members reinforced commitments to deepen regional cooperation on climate action, maritime affairs, fisheries and economic resilience during the 8th Korea–Pacific Islands Senior Officials’ Meeting held in Nadi on May 21.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Republic of Korea and Pacific Islands Forum member countries as part of ongoing efforts to advance the ROK–Pacific Partnership and align cooperation with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
The meeting was co-chaired by Republic of Korea Deputy Minister for Political Affairs Ms. Eui-hae Chung and Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Fiji His Excellency Joseph Ma’ahanua, representing the Pacific Islands Forum chair.
In opening remarks, Ma’ahanua said the meeting was timely as the region prepares for the 2027 Korea–Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, while building on momentum from the 2023 Leaders’ Summit and the 2025 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting discussions.
“It is essential that our cooperation remains aligned with Pacific priorities, including those articulated in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent,” Ma’ahanua said.
“Equally important is ensuring Pacific ownership and visibility; our region is not only a Leader in shaping and implementing initiatives that affect our future.”
Chung said the Republic of Korea would continue supporting sustainable development priorities identified by Pacific Island countries under the regional strategy framework.
“As a globally responsible country, the Republic of Korea will continue to support the sustainable development of the Pacific Island countries in accordance with the priorities set out in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent,” Chung said.
She also highlighted opportunities for future cooperation in energy-related sectors amid evolving global energy challenges, expressing hope that cooperation between Korea and Pacific Island countries would continue in a mutually beneficial and sustainable manner.
Officials also acknowledged Korea’s continued support through the ROK–PIF Cooperation Fund and reaffirmed collaboration on projects aligned with priorities endorsed by Pacific Islands Forum leaders.
Senior officials received briefings from agencies under the Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific as well as Korean agencies on implementation of the 2025 ROK–Pacific Islands Forum Cooperation Fund.
The meeting also featured presentations on emerging business and investment opportunities in the Pacific, including contributions from Nabou Green Energy and the Korea Overseas Fisheries Association.
Presenters highlighted the growing importance of sustainable investment and private sector participation in supporting regional development priorities across the Pacific.
Outcomes from the discussions are expected to help shape the agenda for the next Korea–Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers’ Meeting scheduled for 2027.
The Republic of Korea has been a Dialogue Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum since 1995.
