The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Chair, Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. ‘Aisake Eke, has called for increased international backing of the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) during meetings with World Bank executives in Washington D.C.
On the sidelines of the 2025 Spring Meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, Dr. Eke met with Executive Directors Wempi Saputra and Robert Bruce Nicholl, representing constituencies that include Tonga, Fiji, Australia, and other Pacific nations.
Accompanied by PIF Secretary General Baron Waqa, discussions focused on regional economic priorities and mobilising resources to capitalise the PRF.
The PRF is a Pacific-led, member-owned initiative aimed at enhancing climate and disaster resilience across the region. It seeks to provide small-scale grants to vulnerable communities, addressing challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters. The facility is set to be legally established by the end of 2025, with grant disbursements expected to commence by the end of 2026.
Japan has contributed an initial ¥417 million (approximately US$3 million) to the PRF, marking the first capitalisation of the fund. This contribution underscores Japan’s commitment to strengthening the resilience of grassroots communities in the Pacific.
The PRF aims to raise US$500 million in total capital. Saudi Arabia has pledged US$50 million, while Australia and the United States have committed AUD$2.8 million and US$4.5 million, respectively.
