BY NED GAGAHE
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has highlighted growing regional concerns over fuel security and global instability, following high-level discussions with Pacific leaders earlier this month.
Speaking to local media yesterday during a press conference, Manele said that in his capacity as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, he presided over the Forum Troika meeting held on April 16 in Nadi, Fiji.
The Troika, which comprises past, current and incoming Forum Chairs, plays a key role in guiding regional leadership and consulting on emerging issues affecting the Pacific.
Manele was joined by Palau President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. and the Prime Minister of Tonga during the meeting.
At the outset, the Troika considered the ongoing review of the regional architecture, a key priority for Forum leaders. This includes advancing the Pacific Islands Forum partnership policy and refining engagement with development partners at both strategic and sectoral levels.
Manele said the work will continue in the lead-up to the Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Palau, with full operationalisation expected by 2027.
A major focus of the discussions was the evolving situation in the Middle East and its implications for fuel and energy security across the Pacific.
“I can confirm that Troika leaders have agreed to trigger the Biketawa Declaration, elevating this issue to leaders and calling for a coordinated regional response,” Manele said.
He said Pacific economies remain highly vulnerable to global fuel supply disruptions, warning that prolonged instability could significantly affect shipping, tourism and broader economic activity across the region.
As Chair, Manele said he has formally written to Forum leaders and directed the Secretary-General to undertake consultations on the matter.
The Troika also agreed on a phased regional approach, including the establishment of a regional taskforce to assess the implications of the energy crisis and guide coordinated action.
Manele said he also advanced the Regional Petroleum and Fuel Security Initiative, which aims to strengthen collective arrangements for fuel supply, storage and distribution across Pacific countries.
“This initiative is about ensuring continuity of essential services and safeguarding our economies,” he said.
The meeting also discussed progress on regional architecture reforms and preparations for COP31, including Fiji’s hosting of a pre-COP31 meeting later this year.
Meanwhile, Manele acknowledged that recent challenges, including Tropical Cyclone Maila and the global fuel crisis, are beyond the government’s control but continue to have real impacts on the country.
In response, he announced that the government will convene a donor roundtable meeting set for today, Wednesday, April 29.
The meeting will brief development partners on the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Maila and the ongoing energy crisis, while outlining national priorities and areas requiring urgent support.
“It is our expectation that this engagement will strengthen coordination and ensure that support is aligned with national priorities moving forward,” Manele said.
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