Fiji participated in the Inaugural Commonwealth Ocean Ministers Meeting (COMM) in Cyprus from 18-19 April, 2024. The Fijian delegation, led by Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini, Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Ocean Sherpa advocated for the sustainable management of ocean resources, emphasizing the critical role of oceans in climate regulation, economic development, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
This participation marks a continuation of Fiji’s commitment to global ocean conservation, following our involvement in the UN Ocean Decade Conference and the 9th Our Ocean Conference in Greece, earlier this month.
These efforts are part of a broader global initiative to protect our oceans for future generations.
The delegation’s first engagement was at the Pacific Breakfast Meeting, co-hosted by the Government of Vanuatu and the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner. Led by Hon. Minister Ralph Regenvanu and Pacific Ocean Commissioner Dr. Filimon Manoni, the meeting focused on defining Pacific priorities and strengthening regional advocacy for ocean-related issues, setting the stage for the subsequent Senior Officials Meeting and the COMM.
During these meetings, Fiji engaged in critical discussions to ensuring that specific concerns and priorities of the Pacific are reflected in the upcoming Commonwealth Ocean Declaration. This declaration, which is expected to be adopted at the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa in October 2024, guides Commonwealth nations towards enhanced ocean protection and conservation efforts.
Ambassador Tarakinikini presented Fiji’s strategic objectives as outlined in the National Ocean Policy, which includes ambitious targets such as achieving 100% sustainable management of Fiji’s ocean space and designating 30% as marine protected areas by 2030. The Fijian delegation also highlighted Fiji’s advancements in addressing marine plastic pollution, advocating for ocean-based climate solutions, and promoting the sustainable development of the blue economy.
As the Champion of the Climate Change and Oceans Action Group under the Commonwealth Blue Charter, Fiji advocated for the expansion of marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries, and blue economy practices. At the COMM, Fiji emphasized the need for enhanced climate resilience and finance, sustainable fisheries management, increased marine conservation, and the development of ocean partnerships.
These initiatives demonstrate Fiji’s commitment to regional ocean priorities and our active role in global ocean governance, underscored by our adherence to international agreements such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Kyoto Protocol, the Paris Agreement, and the BBNJ Treaty.
Looking forward, Fiji is eagerly awaiting the adoption of the Commonwealth Ocean Declaration at the upcoming CHOGM in Samoa. This pivotal declaration is expected to highlight the urgent need to protect against sea-level rise and promote the widespread ratification of the BBNJ Treaty, while reinforcing the sovereignty and perpetuity of national Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs).
From Fiji’s perspective, the declaration aims to establish a comprehensive framework for robust management and conservation strategies among Commonwealth nations, propelling significant advancements in the global ocean conservation agenda.
