Strengthening Pacific Commitment to the Montreal Protocol: Tonga Hosts Key Regional Meeting on Ozone Protection and Climate Action
Nuku’alofa, Tonga – 5 May 2025
The Kingdom of Tonga is proudly hosting the Network Meeting of Pacific Island Countries National Ozone Officers, held back-to-back with a Technical Workshop on Strengthening HFC Licensing and Quota Systems from 5–9 May 2025 at the Fa’onelua Convention Centre in Nuku’alofa. The event, jointly organized by Tonga’s Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) OzonAction, brings together representatives from 14 Pacific Island Countries (PICs), international partners, and technical experts.
The opening ceremony featured distinguished remarks that underscored the importance of the Pacific’s leadership in safeguarding the ozone layer and combating climate change.
Mr. James Curlin, Head of UNEP OzonAction (Law Division), joined virtually and lauded the collective progress made by the PIC Network. “With all 14 Pacific Island Countries now having ratified the Kigali Amendment, this region exemplifies unity and ambition. The challenges ahead—particularly in enforcing HFC licensing and quota systems—require practical cooperation, capacity building, and strong national frameworks. OzonAction remains committed to supporting you every step of the way,” said Mr. Curlin.
Speaking on behalf of the Ozone Secretariat, Ms. Liazzat Rabbiosi congratulated the PIC Network on its proactive stance. “This gathering is not just about obligations, but opportunities. Opportunities to share innovations, to embed gender inclusion, and to build data systems that speak to both the past and future of climate-smart policies. Your unity as a network is a model for other regions.”
Ms. Tina Birmpili, representing the Multilateral Fund Secretariat, echoed this view virtually, stating, “The approval of four regional projects in December 2024, totaling over US$5 million, is a reflection of the trust and commitment the global community places in the Pacific. Efficient coordination, streamlined implementation, and effective reporting will be key to translating this investment into sustainable impact.”
Over the course of five days, delegates will engage in plenary discussions, breakout groups, and roundtable dialogues on critical themes including:
- Implementation strategies for the Kigali HFC Implementation Plan (KIP) Stage I
- Streamlining HCFC phase-out and HFC phase-down activities
- Enhancing Monitoring, Reporting, Verification, and Enforcement (MRVE) frameworks
- Gender mainstreaming in Montreal Protocol initiatives
- Capacity building through south-south cooperation
Dr. Taniela Fusimalohi, the Acting Prime Minister, Minister for MEIDECC, and Minister for MOI warmly welcomed delegates and emphasized Tonga’s commitment to international environmental agreements. “Tonga is proud to host this milestone meeting, which aligns with our vision of resilience and sustainability,” said by Hon. Dr. Fusimalohi. “This is a critical moment for Pacific Island Countries as we strive to meet dual obligations under the Montreal Protocol—freezing HFC consumption and continuing the HCFC phase-out—while embracing regional collaboration and integrated implementation.”
This landmark event serves as a foundation for the 2025–2027 implementation period, ensuring Pacific Island Countries are equipped to meet their Montreal Protocol commitments with efficiency, resilience, and regional solidarity.
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