Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders are en route to the Solomon Islands for their annual meeting, which kicks off Monday.

So far, the lead-up has been marred by geopolitical tussles and threats of leaders not attending.

The PIF Leaders’ Summit is when the 18 member states and territories, including New Zealand and Australia, discuss the big issues facing the region.

It is typically attended by over two dozen dialogue partners, including China, France, United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Taiwan.

However, this year’s host, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, blocked all external partners from the event.

His reason: to give Pacific leaders space to focus on reviewing how the Forum engages with partners, as part of reforms under its Partnership and Engagement Mechanism.

The issues on the table for consideration at the retreat – a leaders-only event held on the second to last day away from the action – include:

• Climate crisis
• Ocean of Peace proposal
• New Caledonia report
• Fukushima nuclear wastewater issues
• West Papua issue
• Pacific Resilience Facility
• Regional labour mobility
• Kava declaration
• Fiji’s bid to host a Green Climate Fund office
• New Zealand’s bid to host 2027 edition o PIF
• Tuna treaty negotiations with the US

In 2023, leaders travelled to Aitutaki in Cook Islands, while in 2024, they spent a day on the pristine waters of Vava’u in Tonga.

This year, the setting for the heart-to-heart leaders’ conversation is Munda, in the Western Province of Solomon Islands.

Munda, a tourism hub, is home to the country’s only other international airport which was co-funded by New Zealand, Australia and the Solomon Islands.

Every Pacific leader to attend

Despite the leaders of Fiji and Tuvalu threatening not to go to the summit, Manele has confirmation that 17 out of 18 PIF leaders will attend.

“I’m happy to note that all Forum leaders will be attending the Honiara forum leaders meeting at the leaders level. Samoa, we understand, because of the elections… [will] be represented at the very senior officials’ level,” Manele told Pacific Waves on Thursday.

New Zealand dependent territory Tokelau, an associate member, has confirmed its Ulu-o-Tokelau or head of government national, will not be in Honiara due to “urgent consultations”.

The Honiara Summit will be the first attended by Guam and American Samoa as PIF associate members.

Meetings on the side

As the final touches are put in place ahead of the start of the meeting, the attention also turns to who might engage unofficially on the sidelines.

Massey University’s associate professor in security studies Anna Powles believes it is likely countries with diplomatic missions in the Solomon Islands – such as China, Japan, the UK and the US – will hold meetings on the sidelines of the PIF.

However, she does not think the other dialogue partners will hold such meetings.

“It’s very unlikely that dialogue partners, such as Norway or Singapore, who do not have diplomatic representation in Honiara as they have not been invited,” Powles said.

France has been a dialogue partner since 1989. Their delegation has cancelled flights and accommodation.

But France’s ambassador to the Pacific Véronique Roger-Lacan expressed frustration at PIF’s decision to exclude donors.

She told RNZ Pacific that if France finds that, despite the ban on external partners, some are attending the meeting, it will seek an explanation from PIF.

‘Every man and his dog coming into the Pacific’

In May, Samoa’s caretaker Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa told RNZ Pacific that the contest to get a seat even for a peripheral position within the PIF has been intense.

“Every man and his dog [is] coming into the Pacific,” Fiame said at the time.

She pointed out the persistent “conflict between the collective and national interests” of PIF member states.

Despite this, Manele said this year’s meeting serves as a message to the world that the Pacific stands united, with the theme of “Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent”.

Regional architecture review

A key initiative before the leaders this year is the Regional Architecture Review, which is expected to be endorsed in the Solomon Islands.

The much anticipated review is the leaders’ response to increasing interest from a growing number of forum dialogue partners wanting a seat, and influence, at the regional decision-making table.

A former PIF insider, now Auckland University of Technology lecturer, Sione Tekiteki told RNZ Pacific that external powers had been pitting Pacific Islands Forum members against each other.

“The real tragedy lies in the fact that this so-called ‘divisive issue’ is neither of our making, nor particularly central to our own strategic or developmental priorities,” Tekiteki said last month.

Manele has dismissed claims that blocking the countries was due to pressure from Beijing, which opposes Taiwan’s presence at the event. He said it is a sovereign decision taken by Solomon Islands in the region’s best interests, and not one coming from outsiders.

“We acknowledge public concerns and media narratives regarding forum matters, but let me be very clear, Solomon Islands is a sovereign nation,” Manele said.

“Our government acts in the best interest of our people and the region, decisions related to the Pacific Islands Forum are made collectively by forum members through established processes grounded in the Pacific Way, emphasising respect dialogue and consensus.”

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Prime Minister Hon. James Marape said another concert will be held on September 14–16. It will celebrate PNG’s 50th independence with local artists, traditional dancers, and cultural performances.

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Marape’s stance on Indonesia’s sovereignty being unquestionable may come as a surprise to some, especially given the sensitive nature of the issue surrounding West Papua’s struggle for independence. However, Marape’s acknowledgment of West Papua’s blood, culture, heritage, and history connection with the Melanesian countries demonstrates a level of maturity and responsibility in leading the MSG member countries.

The Prime Minister’s statement not only highlights Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of anniversary but also signifies a clear intervention to speak out on the truths and facts surrounding the Melanesian connection with West Papua. By emphasizing the rights of the Melanesian people in West Papua, Marape has shown a willingness to address the issues affecting the region and advocate for the protection of their human rights, customary rights, and cultural heritage.

Marape’s comments at the MSG Leaders’ Summit reflect a shift towards a more inclusive and responsible approach to regional politics. By acknowledging West Papua’s cultural ties to the Melanesian countries, Marape is sending a message that PNG is not just concerned with the interests of its own people, but those of its neighbours as well.

Furthermore, Marape’s statements on West Papua demonstrate a commitment to upholding human rights and justice in the region. By taking a stand on such a sensitive issue, Marape is showing that PNG is not afraid to address controversial topics and stand up for what is right.

This display of maturity and leadership is crucial in positioning PNG as a key player in regional politics. As one of the largest and most influential countries in the Pacific region, PNG has the potential to shape the political landscape of the region and influence the decisions of other countries.

This bold and courageous move by Prime Minister Marape underscores Papua New Guinea’s leadership role within the Melanesian region and sets a precedent for other countries to stand up for the rights and well-being of the Melanesian people in West Papua. The support for West Papua’s struggle for self-determination and recognition of their unique ties to the Melanesian community resonates deeply and shows a commitment to upholding the values of solidarity and unity among the Melanesian countries.

As Papua New Guinea celebrates its 50th year of independence, Prime Minister Marape’s statements at the recent MSG Leaders’ Summit highlight the country’s continued commitment to championing the rights and freedoms of all Melanesian peoples, including those in West Papua. It is a powerful and symbolic gesture that speaks to the heart of the Melanesian community and reinforces the importance of standing together in solidarity and support for one another. PM James Marape statements that display Papua New Guinea’s maturity in politics clearly indicate the country is ready to play a leading role in regional politics. Yes, regionalism requires regional leaders to represent and speak with boldness and clarity. If not, the evolutionary mechanism of “survival of the fittest” has been clearly at play, and nobody from other regions will speak for our behalf, when it comes to existential threats.

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One of the key themes that connect West Papua with the MSG countries is the struggle for self-determination and independence. The indigenous Papuans have long sought to gain autonomy and sovereignty over their land, which has been under Indonesian control since the controversial Act of Free Choice in 1969. This struggle for independence resonates with the MSG countries, as they have also experienced colonial rule and fought for their own independence in the past.

The cultural connections between West Papua and the MSG countries run deep, with shared traditions, beliefs, and values that have been passed down through generations. The vibrant cultural diversity of Melanesia serves as a unifying force that binds the region together, fostering a sense of solidarity and common identity among its people. Particularly Papua New Guinea share land with West Papua, and it is undeniable that Melanesians in West Papua and Papua New Guinea have very direct blood and cultural relations.

In terms of heritage ties, West Papua and the MSG countries share a rich history of resistance against colonial powers and efforts to preserve their indigenous way of life. The legacy of colonialism in the region has shaped the social, political, and economic landscape of West Papua and the MSG countries, driving them to forge alliances and work together to address common challenges and promote mutual respect and understanding.

As Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th independence anniversary, the country holds a pivotal role in the MSG and the wider Melanesian region. Prime Minister James Marape’s recent statements at the MSG Meeting regarding the West Papua issue and Indonesian sovereignty reflect PNG’s commitment to advocating for the rights of the Papuan people while maintaining constructive dialogue with Indonesia. PM James Marape’s invitation for all Melanesian countries to utilize Papua New Guinea as the hub for interaction with Indonesia is another crucial step taken by the Prime Minister for his country and his peoples on both sides of the Island.

PNG’s stance as a leader in Melanesia highlights the importance of standing up for the region and supporting peaceful and cooperative solutions to regional conflicts. By championing the cause of West Papua and engaging in meaningful dialogue with Indonesia, PNG can play a crucial role in promoting stability, prosperity, and unity in the Melanesian region.

Yes, the historical and cultural connections between West Papua and the MSG countries underscore the shared experiences and aspirations of the Melanesian people. Through dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect, Indonesia, PNG, and other MSG countries can work together to address the challenges facing West Papua and promote peace, justice, and development in the region. By honouring the region’s heritage and upholding the principles of self-determination and sovereignty, the Melanesian countries can build a stronger and more prosperous future for all.

The post The Morning Star Shines, PM James Marape Is Right: the MSG Member Countries and Peoples Have Every Right to Speak for Melanesians in West Papua, Putting Aside Indonesia’s Claim over Its Sovereignty on the Territory. appeared first on WANTOK News.

Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister, James Marape, arrived Sunday in Suva, Fiji, to attend the 23rd Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders’ Summit.

The summit, chaired by Fiji this year, brings together leaders from all Melanesian states and the FLNKS (Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front of New Caledonia) to address shared priorities such as climate action, trade, regional security, and decolonisation efforts.

Prime Minister Marape is accompanied by the higher education minister, Feo Kinoka. His attendance underscores Papua New Guinea’s commitment as a founding and senior member of the MSG, an organisation established in 1986 to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties among Melanesian nations.

Vanuatu has handed over its role as chairperson to Fiji. This transition preceded the formal opening of the MSG Leaders Plenary meeting and a closed-door Leaders’ Retreat. Prime Minister Marape is expected to deliver Papua New Guinea’s country statement, reaffirming the nation’s dedication to strengthening MSG cooperation while reinforcing broader regional partnerships through the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).

“The Pacific region stands at a crossroads. We must take a proactive approach to safeguarding our sovereignty, protecting our resources, and ensuring that our voices are heard on the global stage. Our collective efforts must also voice strongly against human rights abuses in our region and for respect for all our people and members of our Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), the Melanesian Spearhead Group community, and others.”

He is also anticipated to advocate for reforms within regional organisations to ensure they remain responsive, inclusive, and capable of meeting current and future development and security challenges.

A significant aspect of Prime Minister Marape’s engagement in Fiji includes high-level political talanoa consultations with the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) of the PIF. These discussions are taking place on the sidelines of the MSG Leaders’ Meeting and are part of a wider regional effort led by the PIF to enhance Pacific solidarity and strategic cooperation.

The talanoa process will focus on critical issues such as regional security, climate change, fisheries resource management, political governance, national sovereignty, and the institutional reforms of both regional and sub-regional groupings in the Pacific.

Prime Minister Marape has consistently called for a reformed and united Pacific architecture, and he is expected to advocate for stronger collaboration between MSG members and the wider Pacific community. He has emphasised the importance of regional ownership, institutional capacity-building, and ensuring that regional decision-making remains grounded in Pacific cultural values while embracing innovation, inclusion, and resilience.

The United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) is present at the MSG meeting as an observer, and there have been calls for West Papua to be included as a full member of the MSG. This ongoing discussion reflects a persistent aspiration for greater recognition and self-determination for West Papua within the Melanesian family.

It is understood that Prime Minister Marape will also highlight his discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron on New Caledonia. These discussions typically centre on the decolonisation process in New Caledonia and the future of the FLNKS, which is a member of the MSG, reflecting a shared regional interest in the self-determination of the Kanak people.

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[Source: Fiji Government/Facebook]

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has hailed the 23rd Melanesian Spearhead Group Leaders Summit as a powerful reminder of Melanesian unity and strength.

He said this gathering was more than a leaders’ meeting, it was a family reunion of brothers and friends.

Rabuka stressed the summit reinforced shared values of sovereignty, solidarity, and sustainable development.

He acknowledged the tough challenges facing the region but said what gives hope is the clear vision and unity among Melanesian countries.

Rabuka thanked fellow leaders and the MSG Secretary for their leadership and commitment.

He urged all to carry the spirit of respect and kinship back home and build on this unity with action and resolve.

Rabuka also reflected on the personal sacrifices leaders make, praying for strength and blessing for their families who bear the burden at home.

He said the summit deepened the bonds that make Melanesia strong and called on everyone to honor and protect these ties.

Source: Melanesian strength lies in shared vision, says PM – FBC News

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Vanuatu has welcomed the Nice Ocean Action Plan at the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) but has reminded the global community that voluntary pledges are not enough to address the worsening climate crisis.

Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, said climate action is not optional but a legal obligation under international law. “The Pacific contributes almost nothing to global greenhouse gas emissions — yet we are among the most severely affected. Our future is being sacrificed because the rest of the world is failing to act,” he said.

Vanuatu has submitted its ratification of the High Seas Treaty (BBNJ) and remains committed to ambitious climate and ocean action. However, Regenvanu said progress remains limited. “We are left grasping at every legal option available, including advisory opinions from international courts, to hold big polluters accountable for emissions heating the ocean and harming our environment.”

He added that protecting oceans from climate change is a legal duty under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and international environmental law. “We must move beyond voluntary pledges. These are binding legal obligations.” He said he hopes new advisory opinions from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and other courts will clarify state responsibilities.

Julian Aguon, Director of Blue Ocean Law, said Vanuatu and its allies had asked the ICJ to clarify two points: states’ legal obligations on climate change and the consequences of failing to meet those obligations. “Climate change is not happening in a legal vacuum,” Aguon said. “Existing international law — including human rights law, environmental law, and the law of the sea — fully applies to climate change conduct. The ICJ’s opinion will make this clear.”

Vishal Prasad, Director of Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, said the ICJ campaign was led by young people directly witnessing climate impacts. “We are calling for a fossil-fuel-free ocean — without halting fossil fuel expansion, ocean protection is impossible.” He also called for increased ocean resilience funding and recognition of ocean health as a human right, especially for vulnerable Pacific communities.

Coral Pasisi, Director of Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability at the Pacific Community, warned that scientific projections show severe consequences from sea-level rise. “By 2050, small island nations could see a 34 cm rise in sea level — it may sound small, but it will make every storm more destructive, turning ‘once-in-a-century’ events into annual disasters.” She urged global leaders to deliver long-promised climate finance to help Pacific nations adapt.

Aguon concluded by saying international law must now demand reparations — including restitution and compensation — to make climate justice a reality.

ezra@dailypost.vu

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