Pacific Islands Forum Members Pledge ‘Solidarity’ in the Face of Economic, Climate Challenges

“Integrated resilience” across the Pacific is a key strategy to combat the region’s challenges, the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting has concluded. In its communique issued as the week-long gathering ended on Aug. 30, the 18 member states highlighted climate change and environmental degradation as posing grave risks. “Leaders … emphasised the importance of solidarity in the face of many challenges and opportunities before the region, including economic growth, sustainable development, resource management and partnerships,” the document states. The group also recognised the importance of the Forum and its “critical role to bolster regional development and regional cooperation.” Specific issues included the need for economic growth, innovation, and technology and “continued health and education challenges.” Currently, 62 percent of the region’s critical health facilities are within 500 metres of a coastline....