PACIFIC leaders have declared a regional emergency over the growing risk of fuel shortages, as governments brace for possible supply disruptions linked to the ongoing war and surging oil prices.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) “Troika” leaders—Palau President Surangel Whipps and Tonga’s Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua—agreed to invoke the region’s emergency response mechanism, the Biketawa Declaration, to coordinate preparedness and response.
The declaration was last activated during the COVID-19 crisis and was also used ahead of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
Although the Pacific has not yet experienced severe shortages, many countries say they have limited certainty beyond May or June and are already feeling the economic strain.
Tuvalu has declared a state of emergency in its capital, the Marshall Islands has used emergency powers to restrict fuel, and other governments are considering rationing and contingency plans.
Manele said leaders discussed a regional scenario-planning framework to guide short-, medium-, and long-term responses to fuel supply disruptions and to place the region on a coordinated alert footing.
Australia is also weighing options, including a proposal that could see diesel stocks held by the US military shipped to Pacific nations facing shortages.
However, questions remain about whether the wider PIF membership has formally agreed to invoke the Biketawa Declaration, and whether the Troika can activate it on its own.
A Melanesian government source said momentum is building for a coordinated regional response as uncertainty grows.
Source: ABC Pacific
