Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Chair and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has urged regional leaders to defend Pacific regionalism, stressing that unity remains the Forum’s greatest strength amid shifting global dynamics.
Manele made the call during the opening of the 54th PIF Leaders Plenary Meeting at the Friendship Hall in Honiara this morning, Wednesday 10th September, which was attended by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat, Palau President Surangel Whipps and other Pacific leaders.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape missed the opening session. His Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong stood in for him.
Albanese’s arrival followed an earlier visit to Vanuatu, where plans to sign a half-billion-dollar climate and security deal were delayed due to outstanding negotiations.
In his remarks, Manele warned that growing competition among powerful global players risks turning the Pacific into an arena for external interests.
He reminded leaders that Pacific nations are not “passive bystanders” but sovereign states bound by shared values and the Pacific Way. Under the theme “Iumi Tugeda”, he called for a renewed commitment to regionalism, collective decision-making, and solidarity.
Manele highlighted that many sectoral ministries now seek regular space on the Leaders’ agenda, underscoring the need to better align priorities with the 2050 Blue Pacific Strategy.
He referenced the review of the regional architecture and recommendations from the high-level political Talanoa, urging leaders to carefully consider how future agendas are structured.
Looking ahead to the Leaders’ Retreat in Noro, Western Province, Manele encouraged candid, courageous, and united deliberations.
He called for decisions that will strengthen the Forum, advance collective priorities, and secure a peaceful, resilient, and prosperous Blue Pacific for future generations.
By Eddie Osifelo
Solomon Star, Honiara
