by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer
A joint statement from Pacific leaders was reissued at the PIF yesterday morning, omitting references to Taiwan after China criticized a previous version as a “mistake” that needed correction.
Following five days of discussions in Tonga, a revised communique was published on Friday, reaffirming a 30-year-old agreement that permits Taiwan’s participation in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). However, the wording sparked backlash from Chinese diplomats, who pressured Pacific leaders to modify the document.
The forum released the amended communique without any explanation yesterday morning, notably removing the section about the group’s “relations with Taiwan.”
The just released PIF communiqué emphasized that climate change remains a top priority for the Pacific region, along with the need for resilient development.
Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Framework for Resilient Development in the Pacific (FRDP), advocating for inclusive and innovative solutions to enhance well-being resilience.
They expressed support for the Australian Government’s efforts to host the 31st United Nations Climate Change Convention Conference of the Parties (COP 31) in 2026, in collaboration with the Pacific region.
The leaders acknowledged the necessity of coordinating regional actions to effectively manage disaster risks, humanitarian responses, access to disaster risk finance, and active participation in international discussions.
Regarding sea level rise, they recognized it as a critical impact of climate change that poses significant threats to Pacific communities, especially in low-lying countries.
As a result, they agreed to elevate the issue of sea level rise politically, including at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
They welcomed the upcoming High-Level Plenary Meeting on “Addressing the Existential Threats posed by Sea Level Rise,” scheduled for September 25, 2024, in New York. The leaders strongly advocated for sea level rise to be included as a separate agenda item in the UNGA and other relevant UN processes.
They also reaffirmed their backing for the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), recognizing it as a pioneering, member-led, and community-focused financing initiative for climate and disaster resilience.
The leaders appreciated UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ commitment to support the PRF’s capitalization, which aims for an initial funding target of $500 million by January 1, 2026, and an ultimate goal of $1.5 billion.
Australia, Saudi Arabia, the People’s Republic of China, and the United States have already contributed to this fund, and Pacific leaders are encouraging other dialogue partners to also pledge their support to help achieve these financial targets.