In a recent speech, the Prime Minister – Fiame Naomi Mata’afa expressed warm greetings and extended a heartfelt welcome to His Excellency Henry Puna, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, and his senior officials. Reflecting on the significance of Pacific regionalism, the Prime Minister shared Samoa’s perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the Blue Pacific region.
Highlighting the enduring relations and cultural ties Samoa shares with all Pacific Island countries, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of unity in addressing shared challenges. Climate change and the recent impact of COVID-19 have intensified the difficulties faced by the region, hindering sustainable economic development and increasing dependence on development assistance.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the growing interest and complexity in the Blue Pacific region, which has created a crowded geopolitical landscape. With nine Pacific regional organisations operating under the Council of Regional Organisation of the Pacific (CROP), each with their own governance and funding arrangements, navigating this landscape requires careful understanding and coordination. Specialized regional agencies cater to specific interests such as security, law enforcement, and more.
Recognising the complexities of the regional architecture, the Prime Minister emphasised the need for inspired and committed leadership from Forum Leaders. Merely discussing the centrality of the Pacific Islands Forum without concerted action is insufficient. The 2050 Strategy provides a roadmap for effective collaboration, prioritising the well-being of Pacific peoples and empowering the region to control its own agenda.
She highlighted that Samoa is committed to fair and open relations with all partners, advocating for Forum unity and inclusivity while respecting sovereignty regardless of size or economic status. While some partnerships are stronger than others, Samoa remains a consistent and reliable partner. In return, genuine, durable, and mutually beneficial partnerships are expected, based on understanding and friendship.
The Prime Minister also raised concerns about “fit for purpose” strategies guiding partner engagement, emphasising that regional priorities should be determined through open discussions among Pacific Islands Forum Leaders, aligning with national agendas and interests. The vision for a peaceful Blue Pacific continent, free from military competition and conflicts, remains a central aspiration for Samoa.
Expressing deep appreciation for Secretary General Puna’s leadership and support, the Prime Minister recognised his valuable guidance on regional priorities and concerns. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Samoa’s commitment to a re-energized and robust Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and Forum processes, advocating for increased collaboration at the regional level while appreciating bilateral engagements.
The Prime Minister concluded her speech by reiterating the importance of Pacific regionalism and the need for collective action to address challenges. The commitment to unity, inclusivity, and a shared vision for a prosperous and peaceful region remains at the forefront of Samoa’s engagement in the Pacific Islands Forum and its relationships with partners.
