At the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting held on Wednesday at Friendship Hall, the commemoration ceremony for the adoption of the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration brought together leaders, dignitaries, and youth representatives from across the region to reaffirm their commitment to peace, unity, and sustainability in the Pacific.
Josie-Anne Ashley, General Secretary of the Solomon Islands National Youth Congress, delivered a heartfelt youth address, emphasizing the crucial role of young Pacific Islanders in safeguarding their environment, culture, and communities.
In her address, Ashley spoke passionately about what the Ocean of Peace means to Pacific youth.
“It is the gentle lullaby of ocean waves cradling our children to sleep, not the roar of rising seas swallowing our homes,” she said, highlighting the challenges faced by the region—including climate change, nuclear legacies, militarization, and human rights concerns—Ashley urged leaders to translate the declaration from words into meaningful action.
“We cannot have an Ocean of Peace unless every single community lives in peace,” Ashley stated, calling for education, mental health support, and economic opportunities for youth, alongside a meaningful role in decision-making processes.
She pledged the commitment of Pacific youth to advocate for climate justice, oppose nuclear dumping, and preserve the region’s natural resources through grassroots efforts and global partnerships.
As a symbolic gesture, Ashley presented the Honourable Prime Minister and Chair of the Forum with an Island Tuna—a representation of gratitude and unity, and a reminder of the shared responsibility to protect the Pacific Ocean in line with the Blue Pacific 2050 Vision.
The ceremony underscored the collective hope and resolve of Pacific Island nations to foster peace, resilience, and sustainable development amid ongoing global and regional challenges.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
