Tonga hosted 53rd annual meeting of the Pacific Island Forum

The 53rd annual meeting of the Pacific Islands Forum, hosted in Tonga from August 26 to 30, 2023, drew significant attention as more than 1,500 delegates from 40 nations gathered to discuss critical issues facing the region.

Forum's Growing Significance:

1. Historical Context: Established in November 1971 with seven founding members, the Forum has expanded to include 18 member states.

•      Member states (18): Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

• Australia and New Zealand are among the wealthiest and largest countries which are part of the organisation.

2. Rising Stature: Once a relatively low-profile gathering, the Forum has gained prominence in recent years as major powers like China and the U.S. compete for influence in this strategically important region.
3. Diverse Membership: The Forum comprises a mix of larger nations like Australia and New Zealand, and smaller island states with populations as low as 1,500.

Key Issues and Discussions:

1. Climate Change and Environmental Concerns: Given the vulnerability of many Pacific Island nations to environmental threats, climate change and sea level rise were central to the discussions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres underscored the urgency of the situation, highlighting the need for a dedicated climate fund and calling for greater efforts to protect the marine environment.
2. New Caledonia Unrest: The ongoing unrest in the French territory of New Caledonia, stemming from the indigenous Kanak people's struggle for independence, was a pressing concern. The Forum plans to hold a formal dialogue on the matter later this year.
3. Security Dynamics: Australia's proposal for a A$400 million Pacific police training center, endorsed by the leaders, is seen as a measure to counter China's growing security presence in the region.
4. Taiwan's Status: The reaffirmation of Taiwan's participation as a development partner, despite objections from China and its allies, underscores the complex geopolitical tensions at play in the region.

Geopolitical Rivalry and Shifting Dynamics:

1. China's Expanding Footprint: China's active engagement, marked by its largest-ever delegation at the Forum and its security pact with Solomon Islands, reflects its growing influence in the Pacific.
2. U.S. Re-engagement: Amidst China's growing assertiveness, the U.S. has stepped up its efforts to re-engage with the Pacific Island nations, hosting a historic summit with Pacific leaders at the White House in 2022.
3. Evolving Security Landscape: The traditional security partnership between Australia and New Zealand in the region is being challenged by the increased presence of major powers like China and the U.S.

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