The Third Pacific Regional Heads of Maritime Meeting began this week in Honiara, Solomon Islands, bringing together heads of maritimes, experts and development partners to advance maritime governance, sustainability, and regional cooperation under the Pacific One-Maritime Framework (POMF).
Hosted by the Government of Solomon Islands through the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA) with support from the Pacific Community (SPC), the meeting gathered delegates from 16 Pacific Island countries and territories, alongside development partners, to address the pressing challenges facing the maritime sector across the Blue Pacific Continent.
Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Honourable Jeremiah Manele, in his keynote address, highlighted the critical role of the maritime sector in fostering connectivity, economic growth, and resilience across Pacific communities. “Maritime development is not merely about vessels and ports; it represents the mobility, resilience, and economic lifelines of our island nations,” he remarked.
He added, “regional cooperation remains a cornerstone of our shared future, underscoring the importance of unity and partnership in achieving sustainable growth and resilience across the Pacific,”
The meeting also provides a platform for deliberating on the zero-draft of the Pacific One-Maritime Framework. This initiative aims to unify efforts across safety, security, decarbonisation, and equitable access for remote communities, aligning with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
The UK Government’s support through the Conflict, Stability, and Security Fund (CSSF) underscores international commitment to maritime governance.
British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Tom Coward, commended Pacific leadership, stating, “The intention for this framework ensures the region’s maritime transport sector is prepared to address key priorities while promoting sustainable development”.
He added, “The socio-economic development of our Blue Pacific Continent is deeply intertwined with the maritime sector. It not only connects our islands and supports trade but also provides essential services. Addressing the challenges within this sector, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing safety, is vital for our collective future.”
Additionally, the meeting emphasises collaboration between Pacific Island nations to strengthen maritime safety, decarbonisation, and employment opportunities. Initiatives such
as the Maritime Labour Mobility and Shipping Registry National Roadmap showcase the Solomon Islands’ efforts to bolster regional economic ties and create opportunities for its citizens.
SPC Director, Rhonda Robinson in her opening remarks thanked the Solomon Islands for being remarkable hosts and highlighted that the Heads of Maritime meeting serves as a platform for member countries and territories to evaluate their progress, share insights, identify challenges, realign activities to address the maritime needs of our region.
The discussions for the two days will focus on adopting national plans for sustainable maritime futures and enhancing sub-regional cooperation in the region. These efforts aim to reinforce safety, security, and environmental protection while fostering economic growth.
The event, supported by the European Union (EU), International Maritime Organization (IMO), and other development partners, will continue with the consolidation and consultations aimed at finalising the Pacific One-Maritime Framework before the sixth Pacific Regional Energy and Transport Ministers Meeting in 2026.
As the world becomes increasingly connected, the Third Heads of Maritime Meeting represents a crucial step toward building a stronger, more united maritime future. Delegates are dedicated to safeguarding the waters of the Blue Pacific, striving to make them safe, sustainable, and fair for the generations that follow.
The third Heads of Maritime Meeting was attended by country representatives from Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
The meeting ended on Friday, 29th November 2024.
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SIMA
