IN a defining moment for the Pacific region, President Taneti Maamau of Kiribati has proudly assumed the Chair of the Smaller Island States (SIS) at the 54th Pacific Islands Forum. His leadership shines a spotlight on the unique challenges and unwavering resilience of the region’s smallest and most vulnerable island nations.
Opening with a heartfelt expression of solidarity, President Maamau extended sympathy to the Republic of the Marshall Islands in the face of recent adversity, underscoring the deep sense of unity that defines the Pacific family. This meaningful gesture set the tone for a Forum centered on both resilience and collective strength.
As Chair, President Maamau emphasized the vital role of the Smaller Island States—often overlooked in broader regional dialogues but embodying frontline realities such as climate change impacts, connectivity challenges, and economic vulnerabilities. “Our grouping reminds the region that true Pacific solidarity is measured not by averages, but by how we uplift the most vulnerable among us,” he affirmed.
The agenda ahead is ambitious and focused. Priority actions have been sharpened to address critical needs: securing reliable air and sea transport, advancing sustainable fisheries, strengthening regional procurement and health workforce mechanisms, and enhancing access to climate finance. These are not abstract goals, but essential lifelines for daily life across dispersed islands.
President Maamau called for close collaboration with regional partners and underscored the power of political will in transforming vulnerability into strength. “If we are bold and united, the Smaller Island States will lead the way in showing how vulnerability can be turned into a source of political power and resilience.”
Outgoing SIS Chair, President Wesley Simina of the Federated States of Micronesia, praised the progress made during his tenure. He highlighted how these practical priorities reflect the everyday realities islanders face and expressed optimism for SIS’s future impact, urging ongoing solidarity and financial support to sustain these critical efforts.
The Forum’s Secretary General, Baron Waqa, echoed this commitment, reaffirming the SIS’s special place within the Pacific Islands Forum family. He promised continued technical and political support to amplify SIS voices and ensure their decisions shape regional and international responses.
Under the powerful theme “Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for An Integrated Blue Pacific Continent,” this year’s Forum is not just a gathering—it’s a call to urgent action to address climate change and safeguard the survival of Pacific islanders.
With President Maamau’s leadership at the forefront, the Smaller Island States are poised to navigate the challenges ahead with unity, courage, and steadfast political strength—sending a clear message to the world that the Blue Pacific is ready to rise together.
