PH Reaffirms Role as a Reliable Partner in Building a Transformative and Resilient Pacific Region
NUKU’ALOFA, TONGA 04 September 2024 – The Philippines has reaffirmed its dedication to the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) as an essential platform for addressing regional challenges, enhancing cooperation.
In his address during the Leaders’ Dialogue with Partners at the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting on 28 August, Hon. Charles C. Jose, Special Envoy of the President and Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and International Economic Relations of the Department of Foreign Affairs, underscored the Philippines’ steadfast support for the PIF and its Member States. He highlighted the nation’s commitment to advancing both their individual and collective goals.
“The Philippines understands the Pacific because we are Pacific. As President Marcos said, we carry the cultural heritage of our seafaring ancestors in our very DNA. We see our future in our identity not only as Asians but also as part of this Blue Continent,” Special Envoy Jose stated.
Special Envoy Jose noted that the Philippines is actively engaged in supporting Pacific Island Countries’ efforts to build resilience against natural disasters and to assert their sovereignty in a rapidly evolving global landscape. He emphasized that these efforts are part of the Philippines’ broader commitment to regional stability and development.
Looking ahead, Special Envoy Jose announced that the Philippines, as a Dialogue Partner of the PIF, will soon launch a new initiative aimed at bolstering support in critical areas such as health, labor mobility, disaster preparedness, and food security. This initiative reflects the Philippines’ ongoing dedication to addressing the pressing needs of the Pacific region and reinforcing its partnership with the Forum.
At the sidelines of the PIF, Special Envoy Jose had bilateral meetings with H.E. Surangel Whipps, Jr. President of Palau; Hon. Fekita ‘Utoikamanu, Minister for Meteorology, Environment, Information, Disaster Management, Energy, Climate Change and Communication of Tonga; Hon. Lionel Rouwen Aingimea, MP, Foreign Minister of Nauru; Hon. Sakeasi Ditoka, Minister for Rural, Maritime and Disaster Management of Fiji; Mr Pasuna Tuaga Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Labour and Trade Ministry of Tuvalu; and Mr. Nikola Stojanovic, State Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Serbia. In these meetings, he explored opportunities to advance development cooperation in the areas of political security, trade, cultural and tourism exchange, health, disaster risk response, and gender development, among others. END
