Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya met with Baron Waqa, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), during Waqa’s visit to Japan. The 30-minute discussion focused on enhancing cooperation to address regional challenges, particularly climate change, which Iwaya described as the “single greatest existential threat” to Pacific Island nations.
Japan announced a $3 million contribution to the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), reaffirming its commitment to climate resilience and fulfilling pledges made at the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM10) in 2023. Secretary General Waqa praised Japan’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of such support in tackling the climate crisis.
Both sides also discussed the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and agreed to launch a senior officials dialogue to strengthen communication and cooperation. Additionally, Iwaya addressed concerns about the discharge of ALPS-treated water, assuring its safety and Japan’s commitment to transparency and regional capacity-building through the IAEA.
The meeting underscored Japan’s dedication to supporting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific Islands region.
