AUSTRALIA hosted Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders for a PIF Troika meeting in Brisbane this week to discuss progress on arrangements for a special pre-COP hosted in the region.
Discussions also covered follow-up actions from decisions of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum, as well as consideration of the Forum’s strategic outlook and planned regional and international engagements for 2026.
The meeting earlier this week included the current PIF Chair, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele; the outgoing PIF Chair, Tongan Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua; the incoming PIF Chair, Palauan President Samuel Whipps; and the PIF Secretary General, Baron Waqa.
“Australia is backing Pacific-led climate solutions – investing in the Pacific Resilience Facility and in new energy partnerships,” said Penny Wong, Foreign Affairs Minister of Australia.
“At a time of major global uncertainty, Australia’s additional $AUD550 million investment will deliver further critical infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on digital infrastructure development.
“As a founding member of the PIF, Australia is a reliable partner for the Pacific, working to shape a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region.”
Wong also welcomed Lord Prime Minister Fakafanua on his first visit to Australia since his election as Prime Minister in December 2025, and since Australia and Tonga committed to elevating our partnership through the Kaume’a Ofi agreement.
She will also meet Manele to discuss Australia’s commitment to our economic, development, and security partnership with Solomon Islands.
In discussions with Whipps, Wong will confirm Australia’s support for Palau in delivering a successful and impactful PIF Leaders’ meeting later this year.
Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen will also sign a Memorandum of Understanding on a Renewable Energy and Climate Partnership with Tonga and meet with President Whipps to discuss climate solutions and progress of the Palau-Australia Renewable Energy Partnership.
“We are bringing the world to the Pacific to see climate impacts and solutions through the COP process,” Bowen said.
“Climate action remains the greatest lever to protect the livelihoods, security, and wellbeing of the people of the Pacific.”