December 2, 2023

Dubai, 2nd December 2023.

In a historic move at the Nature Plenary of the World Climate Action Summit, the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. Huákavameiliku, representing the Blue Pacific region, proudly introduced the transformative initiative titled “Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity.”

The Blue Pacific region, encompassing resilient large ocean states and small island developing states, boasts an ocean area five times larger than the USA, housing 30% of the world’s Exclusive Economic Zones and safeguarding 30% of Earth’s coral. However, it faces an existential threat from climate change, despite not being the primary contributor to the crisis.

Prime Minister Honorable Huákavameiliku delivers an address during the Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity

The “Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity” initiative addresses this urgent challenge by harmonizing nature’s wisdom, science, and traditional knowledge with innovative financial strategies. The key goals of the initiative include a commitment to 100% effective sustainable ocean management, the protection of 30% of the Blue Pacific Continent, thriving communities with robust food systems, and the development of sustainable financing mechanisms aligned with the region’s 2050 Strategy.

The Blue Pacific region, despite facing the severe impacts of climate change, has struggled to access the promised climate finance. Only 0.22% of the committed $100 billion per year reaches Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) annually, perpetuating climate injustice.

“Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity” represents a monumental step forward for the Pacific and the planet. Tomorrow, Pacific leaders will officially launch the initiative, extending an invitation to like minded partners from the private and public sectors to join forces. This collaboration is a critical opportunity to combat climate change, uphold climate justice, and safeguard the invaluable ecosystems and people of the Blue Pacific Continent.

The “Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity” initiative is not just a commitment; it’s a call to action to protect the Blue Pacific and ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.

His Majesty King Tupou VI during his delivered the National Statement of Tonga on the occasion of the 28^th Session of the conference of the Parties (COP28)

Dubai, 1^st December, 2023- His Majesty King Tupou VI of the Kingdom of Tonga has delivered a compelling statement at the 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). His Majesty expressed his gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for hosting this critical event and acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the UNFCCC Secretariat.

Expressing concern over the slow progress on the Paris Agreement, King Tupou VI emphasized the severe impacts of climate change and disasters on Small Island Developing States (SIDS). More than 50,000 Pacific people are displaced annually due to climate and disaster-related events, prompting the need for urgent action.

During the recent 52^nd Pacific Islands Forum, leaders endorsed the Pacific Partnership for Prosperity (PPfP), a political prioritization process aimed at mobilizing resources for national and regional development. King Tupou VI urged all partners to collaborate in implementing the PPfP to address the pressing challenges faced by SIDS.

To meet the unique needs of the Pacific, King Tupou VI called for the creation of a Pacific-led community resilience financing facility. While acknowledging the commitments of Australia and New Zealand, he urged all partners to contribute to funding the establishment of a Pacific Resilience Facility.

Highlighting the significance of the ocean to Pacific nations, King Tupou VI noted that the themes outlined by the UAE at COP28 align with the major challenges faced by Tonga and SIDS. These challenges include technology and innovation, inclusion, support for frontline communities, and financial assistance.

The 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, championed by Tonga and Palau, aims for a blue technological revolution with innovation at its core. The focus is on developing and deploying SIDS-appropriate technologies, such as ocean energy technologies, to enhance climate resilience.

King Tupou VI urged a collective effort to prioritize “nature, people, lives, and livelihoods” at the heart of climate action. Emphasizing the urgency of the matter, he called for a united commitment to making significant progress in addressing climate challenges.

This statement underscores the gravity of the situation faced by the Kingdom of Tonga and SIDS, urging global collaboration for effective climate action.

ENDS