HRH Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala – Minister for His Majesty’s Diplomatic Services, accompanied by Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua and Minister of Finance, Hon. Sivoki Lavemaau, joined fellow Pacific leaders for discussions focused on regional priorities, cooperation and the shared future of the Pacific.
Tonga has called for stronger and more meaningful participation by young people, civil society, vulnerable communities and the private sector in shaping the future of the Pacific.
The call came during Day Two of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM55) in Palau, which began with a Leaders’ Dialogue with the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP).
The Prime Minister of Tonga later participated in the Leaders’ Dialogue with the Private Sector and Civil Society, welcoming the participation of non-government stakeholders and emphasising the importance of genuine partnerships in shaping the region’s future.
As the Pacific’s youngest Prime Minister and a long-standing advocate for youth, Lord Fakafanua called for stronger mechanisms to ensure that young people, underserved communities and other underrepresented groups are meaningfully engaged in regional decision-making.
He welcomed valuable contributions from youth representatives, vulnerable communities and private-sector stakeholders, recognising that their experiences and perspectives are essential to building a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable Blue Pacific.
Pacific First Ladies Address Substance Use
Meanwhile, as part of the Spouse Programme for PIFLM55, Lady Fane Fakafanua joined fellow Pacific First Ladies for a meaningful dialogue focused on understanding substance use and its impact on communities across the Blue Pacific.
The programme was hosted by Palau’s Office of the President and First Lady Mrs Valerie Whipps, providing an opportunity for Pacific First Ladies to discuss an issue affecting families, young people and communities throughout the region.
The discussions highlighted the importance of greater awareness, community support and collective action in responding to substance use and its wider social impacts.
Culture and Environment Highlighted
The Spouse Programme also continued with visits to Palau’s environmental and cultural initiatives, including Belau Eco Glass and the Belau National Museum.
The visits highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, community participation and collective action in strengthening Pacific communities.
As Pacific leaders continue their discussions in Palau, Tonga’s participation has placed particular emphasis on ensuring that the region’s future is shaped not only by governments, but also by young people, communities, civil society and the private sector.
The message from Tonga is clear: a stronger Blue Pacific requires inclusive leadership, genuine partnerships and a meaningful voice for all Pacific communities.
