The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) is nearing a decision to upgrade Guam and American Samoa’s membership status, marking a significant shift for the US territories.
Forum officials recently visited both territories as part of their assessment for membership bids, scheduled to be discussed at the upcoming 53rd Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga.
Guam’s acting governor, Lt Joshua Tenorio, emphasised the importance of their inclusion, stating, “The Pacific Islands Forum needs to be complete.”
PIF deputy secretary general Esala Nayasi confirmed the applications and highlighted their significance in regional politics. “The Forum’s mission to address Pacific issues would benefit from their participation,” Nayasi said.
While the territories are set to become non-voting associate members, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken supports their involvement despite their political status.
The move reflects a broader recognition of the territories’ strategic importance in the Pacific region’s political landscape.
