HONIARA, Solomon Islands — “The cultural performance that began this morning’s ceremony is not only a celebration of our diversity but a reminder of just how special this moment is for any nation,” said Tongan Prime Minister Aisake Valu Eke, as Pacific leaders gathered Monday for the opening of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
The weeklong summit began with vibrant music, chants, and traditional dances showcasing the Solomon Islands’ cultural mosaic — a celebration of connections across Melanesia, Polynesia, and Micronesia. The performances underscored the deep ties among Pacific nations, united by their shared ocean and traditions.
Outgoing chair Eke struck a reflective tone, recalling the resilience of Tonga during past natural disasters and urging leaders to honor their responsibility as “custodians of our ocean, guardians of our islands and champions of sustainability.” He praised the Solomon Islands’ hospitality, calling it “a profound honor” to gather in what he described as the “Happy Isles.”
Incoming chair and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele framed the opening as both a celebration and a call to action. “The true beauty of the Forum is the opportunity that we have to share the richness of our culture, diversity and heritage,” he said. He urged leaders to embrace this year’s theme — Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent — describing it as a reflection of Pacific solidarity and a demand for urgent, united action.
Manele’s remarks carried an optimistic, forward-looking tone, emphasizing inclusivity and the need for stronger partnerships with regional organizations, the private sector and civil society. “This is our time. This is our opportunity,” he said.
Among the many delegations present was a large team from Palau, which will host the Forum in 2026. Palau’s leaders signaled they were in Honiara to observe and learn from Solomon Islands’ preparations, aiming to carry forward the same spirit of unity and cultural pride.
The Forum will focus this week on pressing regional priorities, from climate action and resilience to security, economic development, digital connectivity and gender equality. Leaders are expected to endorse the creation of a Pacific Resilience Facility and adopt the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration, measures aimed at strengthening the region’s global leadership.
As the ceremony closed, the mood was both festive and resolute. The Solomon Islands’ opening spectacle set a high bar for hosting, while leaders emphasized solidarity and urgency in confronting shared challenges. For Palau, the gathering offered a powerful blueprint for its turn to welcome the Forum in 2026.
