Tonga has called for urgent international investment in Pacific-led ocean governance and climate-resilient maritime infrastructure.
Speaking at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, Tonga delivered a strong message on behalf of Pacific Island Forum nations, highlighting the urgent need for integrated ocean governance to safeguard livelihoods and ecosystems.
Dr Vailala Matoto, CEO of the Ministry of Fisheries, stressed the Pacific’s role as stewards of 20 per cent of the world’s ocean and outlined the region’s frontline experience with climate threats.
“We call for urgent investment to strengthen capacities of the Pacific in environmental governance… guided by sound science and knowledge, equity, and sustainability,” Dr Matoto said during a panel on sustainable ocean-based economies.
With maritime transport underpinning Pacific economies, Tonga highlighted the need to prioritise low-emission shipping and climate-resilient port infrastructure.
“Eighty per cent of goods in the Pacific are moved by sea… We call for prioritisation of climate-resilient port infrastructure to safeguard trade, mobility, and economic stability,” Dr Matoto added.
Tonga also called for increased financing for nature-based solutions like mangroves and coral reefs, and investment in early warning systems aligned with Pacific-led initiatives.
The conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, closed on Friday.
