THE Pacific region has been put on a “coordinated high alert framework” to respond to “the unfolding energy security crisis” following the meeting in Fiji last Thursday of the Pacific Islands Forum Troika Leaders. The PIF Troika leaders comprise of the incoming chair PIF Palau President Surangel Whipps, presiding chair Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and outgoing chair, Tonga’s Prime Minister Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua.
In a statement released after its meeting in Nadi, Mr Manele said he will continue consultations with Pacific Leaders on implementation arrangements of the high alert framework and that he has also “advanced Solomon Islands’ proposal for a Regional Petroleum and Fuel Security Initiative (RPFSI), aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and delivering practical benefits for Pacific Island countries.”
“The initiative seeks to improve fuel supply security, strengthen tanker shipping coordination, and enhance domestic storage capacity across the region.
“It builds on existing supply arrangements by formalising a coordinated regional approach to strengthen collective negotiating power on fuel pricing and freight costs, including for Solomon Islands.
“Leaders also noted ongoing national measures being implemented across Forum Island countries to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs on households, businesses, and government services.”
Across the region, Tuvalu and the Marshall Islands have declared energy emergencies while Solomon Islands, Fiji, Nauru, Vanuatu, the Cook Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia are implementing national mitigation measures, Mr Manele stated.
“Other Forum members remain on a regional watch phase, with ongoing monitoring by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.
“The Troika also considered a regional scenario planning framework to guide preparedness for short, medium, and long-term fuel supply disruptions.”
Also in attendance at the meeting was Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Australia’s Energy Minister Chris Bowen, who participated virtually.
The Biketawa Declaration, birthed by PIF leaders at their meeting on Biketawa in Kiribati in 2000, provides for a framework for coordinating responses to regional crises.
