Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has described the journey undertaken by the Pacific voyagers as a powerful symbol of Pacific unity and resilience in the face of shared challenges.
He uttered this when he warmly welcomed the arrival of the traditional voyaging canoes Tepuke and Uto Ni Yalo at a special ceremony on Monday afternoon. The ceremony was held at the Marine school seafront, Ranadi, East Honiara.
Addressing Pacific Islands Forum Leaders, dignitaries, the voyaging crews and members of the public, Prime Minister Manele said, the Wansolwara Voyage breathes life into the logo and theme of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting- Umi Tugeda for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent.
“The Tepuke and Uto Ni Yalo are more than just canoes. Their sails carry the stories of our ocean, their hulls hold the hopes of our children, and their journey strengthens our collective resolve to safeguard the Blue Pacific,” the Prime Minister stated.
He acknowledged the powerful messages brought forward by the Wansolwara voyagers, stating that their call to action is clear. It is now upon regional leaders to bring the political will to propel the regional canoe forward.
PM Manele is confident this week, Forum Leaders will generate the political strength to embrace deeper regionalism.
He underlines that the Pacific ‘Islands’ collective vision for a Blue Pacific Continent requires unity and bold action.
Prime Minister Manele further highlighted the urgent challenges facing the region, including the planetary crises of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
“As stewards of 20% of the planet’s surface, Pacific nations have a moral obligation to protect the ocean, which he described as the “lifeblood of the planetary system.”
He reaffirmed the Solomon Islands’ and the region’s commitment to lead global advocacy on climate and ocean issues, building on past achievements such as the successful inclusion of SDG 14 (Life Below Water) in the UN 2030 Agenda and the global recognition of 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
He cautioned Pacific Islands Forum Leaders not to be complacent but to lead, drive, and own its agenda on climate action, ocean stewardship, and regional solidarity.
He vowed to continue to carry this message to international platforms, including the United Nations General Assembly and the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of forging strategic partnerships to effectively implement ocean related policies at the national, regional, and international levels, ensuring a stable, nuclear-free, and peaceful Pacific for future generations.
– OPMC
