Outgoing Chair and Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon Dr Aisake Valu Eke, delivered his final remarks at the opening ceremony of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM54) in Honiara, urging regional leaders to act decisively for a resilient and integrated Blue Pacific.
Addressing Forum leaders, regional delegates, and youth representatives, the Tongan Prime Minister reflected on the challenges faced during his tenure, including the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption, the COVID-19 pandemic, and intensifying climate threats.
“These experiences did not define us as vulnerable,” he said, “but as people of great resilience and unity, forging ahead with perseverance and determination.”
Eke’s speech, delivered in both English and Tongan, paid tribute to the cultural diversity of the region and acknowledged government.
He extended “deepest appreciation” to the incoming Chair Hon. Jeremiah Manele, Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, for hosting the Forum and reaffirmed the importance of the solidarity.
The outgoing Chair also referenced a recent church service at the Saint Barnabas Cathedral, describing it as “a renewal of spirit and hope for the region,” and echoed the Forum’s theme: Umi Tugeda-Act now for a Blue Pacific Continent.
“Pacific people are the custodians of our oceans,” Prime Minister Eke said. “We must be champions of our visions and sustainability for generations to come.”
The 54th Forum comes amid growing calls for climate finance, regional cooperation, and youth inclusion. The prime minister’s remarks were widely seen as a bridge between tradition and transformation, emphasizing the Pacific’s collective strengthen in navigating global uncertainty.
The leadership baton now passed to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, who is expected to steer the Forum through critical discussions on climate action, region governance, and economic recovery.
By ANDRIANAH KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
